Embarking on a Work & Travel USA program is an exhilarating journey that challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and fully embrace the moment. It’s a journey filled with new experiences, diverse cultures, and valuable life lessons. As you prepare for this adventure, remember that this is more than just a trip, it’s an opportunity for growth and exploration. Here four participants from the Winter Work & Travel USA program share their experiences and offer advice for first-timers on how to make the most of this life-changing opportunity.
Valeria Luza Velazco, a participant from Peru working at Gravity Haus in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, has ventured into this program three times. For Valeria, each experience has been unique, but this year stood out as both the best and the most challenging. She reflects on how she had to push herself beyond her shyness. “I consider myself shy, and before this year, I wasn’t very good at communicating. My employer noticed this and encouraged me to socialize and communicate with customers.” Through this experience she learned to not limit herself by thinking she can’t do something, when she can. Valeria’s story is a testament to the growth that comes when you push past your limits and embrace the challenges that come your way.
Santiago Heredia, a first-time participant from Argentina working at Sun Valley Resort in Sun Valley, Idaho, initially found the program overwhelming. “My first week was stressful,” he admits. “I was way too stressed on how to open a bank account, get a Social Security number, and a cell phone. I barely had time to enjoy my first few days here.” Santiago’s experience highlights the importance of embracing the unknown instead of stressing over it. Rather than getting bogged down by the logistics, take each challenge as it comes and trust your ability to adapt and thrive in new environments.
Macarena Cordova, a second-time participant from Peru and working at Huff House Inn and Cabins in Jackson, Wyoming, offers advice for overcoming fear of the unknown. “When I came here for the first time I felt kind of alone,” she recalls. “But then you meet people, and that first step is the hardest part. Just don’t be scared.” This year Macarena bonded with her roommates—five other participants from Bolivia, Honduras, and Mexico—and she treasured every moment. “Even if you don’t realize it, time flies by.
For Izel Garcia Burgos, a first-year participant from Bolivia who worked at Dairy Queen in Grand Marais, Minnesota, embracing the unknown was key to her experience. “Everyone has their own goals for coming on the program, but you have to believe in yourself to enjoy the process more because it’s not easy,” she says. Adjusting to a new environment was challenging, but Izel found that by embracing the differences and living in the moment, she could fully enjoy the experience. “You’re alone, you don’t have your family, friends, and everything is new. But you have to enjoy it and live the process.” Izel’s advice reminds us that the unknown, while uncomfortable, is where meaningful experiences happen.
These four Winter Work & Travel USA participants embarked on a life-changing adventure, each facing and overcoming their own unique challenges. Whether you’re seeking a fun break from school, an opportunity to gain work experience, or a chance to meet new people, remember that the Work & Travel USA program is an opportunity to grow as an individual. By stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing each experience, you’ll discover that the positive nearly always outweighs the negative.
