A reflection by Work & Travel USA participant Vincent from France, who spent the summer of 2025 working at Schooner Landing in Damariscotta, Maine. He was hosted by Hiring Manager Meg Tschaikowsky, Co-owner Caleb Jones, and Manager Steve Greenwood.
Schooner Landing sits on the beautiful harbor of Damariscotta. Morning sea breezes, golden sunsets, and a steady stream of smiling guests gave the town a warmth I’ll never forget.
Almost every day there was music—little “festivals” that drew people together. We swayed and danced along, with lights shimmering on the water, and the air was filled with the scent of fried seafood and beer.
For me, that summer wasn’t just a job; it was a feeling of arrival. Everything felt wonderfully alive.
Work & Growth
I worked at the fry station, and fish and chips became my signature. It looks simple, but busy hours leave no room for error—prep, drop, drain, plate, and communicate, all at pace.
This routine taught me to stay calm under pressure, to treat every plate as a promise to a guest, and to find pride in small, consistent details. Some days were hectic, but every day felt full and meaningful.
Colleagues & Belonging
What I treasured most were the kind people I worked with. They made me feel at home in a place far from home.
When I first arrived in the U.S., my English was shaky and I hesitated with everything. Meg encouraged me to try without a translator—she slowed down, chose simpler words, and made sure I could follow.
Caleb and Steve backed me up with quiet support: safety reminders, clear demonstrations, and smart priorities when the kitchen got chaotic. Their patience and trust helped me step out of my language and confidence “double barrier.”
By the time I left, I could chat, joke, and say “thank you” naturally in English.
Life & Laughter
Outside of work, we made so many good memories.
Hiking with Meg, I soaked in the forest air and the salty wind from the bay. With Caleb and the crew, we listened to music by the shore and ate ice cream as the sun faded over the water. Our “Schooner family” beach day was pure joy—sand, laughter, camera clicks, and hair wild from the sea breeze.
At Schooner Landing, a summer wasn’t just about shifts and tickets; it was nature, music, and friendship woven together.
What I Learned & My Thanks
This experience taught me that professionalism comes from careful practice, courage grows through honest attempts, and real growth is often nurtured by kindness. Because of the people I met, I found a sense of home abroad. I speak more confidently, think more openly, and move forward more steadily.
Thank you to everyone at Schooner Landing for your patience, kindness, and trust. Thank you, Meg, Caleb, and Steve, and everyone across the kitchen, dining room, bar, and host stand.
You all helped me become a better version of myself. You turned a summer job into a life-changing experience and made Damariscotta feel like home. I’ll carry your lessons—and our laughter—wherever I go.
May the sea breeze always be with you. And when we meet again, I hope we’ll share new stories with the same easy laughter.
