Our cultural exchange participant Maša writes to us from Cleveland, located in the northeastern part of Ohio, where the Cuyahoga River meets Lake Erie. She’ll be spending the next year there—here’s what she had to say about her experience so far.
My first impressions of the cultural exchange program? This is honestly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! I’m currently in Cleveland, a city known for its rock music scene and rich sports history. As a huge rock fan, I couldn’t be happier to be here. This program helped me achieve my dream of coming to the U.S., and it’s already taught me so much—about life, and even more importantly, about myself. When I return home to Montenegro, I’ll bring back beautiful memories and life-changing experiences that I’ll carry with me forever. I have the wonderful team at the Center for Affirmation and Development to thank for that—and, of course, my amazing host family, who have made me feel like a real member of the family from day one. I’m beyond grateful and so proud to be part of all this!
In my free time, I’ve been visiting festivals and picnics—there are so many happening all the time here in Cleveland. I also enjoy going for walks, attending church, riding my bike, and exploring the city’s museums and historical landmarks, which are everywhere around the neighborhood where I live with my host family.
There have been so many highlights over this past month, but if I had to name a few, I’d say I’m most thrilled about the fact that I got the chance to come to America in the first place. Then there are all the amazing festivals I’ve been to—events we don’t have as often back home. I’ve met so many wonderful people and made incredible new friends in just a few short weeks. I’ve also tried so many new foods—things I might never have gotten the chance to taste in Montenegro. All of these moments have meant so much to me—and the best part is, this is just the beginning! I’ve only been here a month, and I can’t wait to see what the next eleven months have in store.
Ihre Botschaft an zukünftige Teilnehmer:
To anyone considering this program—go for it! Opportunities like this come once in a lifetime, and everyone should take the chance to experience something new. It’s the perfect way to explore the world, earn some money, meet people from all over, immerse yourself in different cultures, and improve your English!
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