Our cultural exchange participant, Ivana, writes to us from Seattle, Washington, where she’ll be spending the next year. Here’s what she had to say about her first impressions.
After two months here, I can honestly say my experience has been very positive so far. The family I’m staying with is wonderful—they help me get around the city, and show me the area, and we often spend time together even outside of my work hours. I bonded with the child I care for right away, which really helped me settle in and adapt to their daily routine. Seattle is a city full of nature and scenic waterfronts, offering tons of great options for how to spend your free time. We also have monthly meetups with other participants, and our local coordinator always makes sure we have a meaningful time together—whether it’s seeing something new or simply connecting more.
Ivana also shared how she spends her free time, and what has stood out to her the most.
In my free time, I love exploring local street markets and different parts of the city, walking through parks, and hanging out with other exchange participants. I’ve also met a few peers in my French class, and we often go to cafés and bookstores where we can study together. The very idea of this program—getting the chance to live in another country and connect with people from different cultures—is something I see as truly valuable and enriching. Spending time with the children in the host family makes me feel fulfilled. It gives me space to be creative and encourages me to explore more local activities. I genuinely feel like part of the family—welcomed and accepted—and that makes everything easier.
When it comes to working with our team, Ivana added:
The process with CAR has been smooth from the start. The coordinators were always available to answer my questions, help with my paperwork, and walk me through every step. They provided clear guidance for the visa process and started preparations early, which helped me feel ready for my interview at the embassy—and it went great.
Ihre Botschaft an zukünftige Teilnehmer:
To anyone thinking about joining this program—I’d say you’re in for a truly beautiful journey. It’s the kind of experience that will stay with you and offer so much, even beyond your comfort zone or what you’re used to. This is your chance to let go, stop overthinking, and soak up every moment—for all the opportunities and beauty each country has to offer.
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