This experience feels almost like a dream, I constantly find myself thinking that this is too good to be real. I can’t believe I lived abroad for five months already, I can’t believe that I have learned so much, I can’t believe how this experience has made me grow in so many ways but having said that, the hard pill to swallow is that this experience most likely is coming to an end.
I am almost halfway through, but so far even with the ups and down, I can say I don’t regret pushing myself to this experience.
It is easy to be overwhelmed and to become chained to the 8 hours shift routine, but if you are currently on a Cultural exchange program or at planning to participate, here are 3 tips I would have liked to have on my mind since day 1:
REMEMBER THIS IS A CULTURAL EXCHANGE NOT JUST A JOB:
Although one of the requirements for the J1 Visa is to work and be trained on your field, this is not the only thing we are expected to do. Cultural immersion is the key, this is the time to learn from United States culture as much as we can, and this will be richly achieved by taking time to meet people, go to museums, cultural activities and enjoying what this country offers. Try to picture your time here as an enjoyment and further understanding of US culture.
KEEP UP WITH YOUR VALUES, HOBBIES AND BELIEFS:
Being away from home and business can wear out the values, hobbies and beliefs one can bring from home. Take time to learn how to nourish what you would like to keep, try to find a decent work and life balance so that you can keep up with the things you most appreciate. Plan your time off to join an art class, Gym, Church or anything that you enjoy doing or would like to start doing.
PUSH YOURSELF FURTHER AND BEYOND
Growth happens when pushing ourselves out of the nutshell. Strive for more, focus on working towards personal development so that you can serve better to the context you find yourself in and to the betterment of the world. After couple months being abroad somethings start to become routine as well as some of the tasks we are entrusted to do. Seek excellence in whatever you do, not merely complying with the minimum to pass the mark. The world will be better, and your future will also bring the fruits of what and how you pushed yourself through this experience.
I hope to see you around for Verse 6, stay tuned.
Greg.
