What inspired you to travel abroad?
I always wanted to travel after I finished my degree in Agriculture. When I first heard about the A-Way-To-Work program in post-secondary, I knew this was an opportunity I didn't want to miss out on. I am passionate about the agriculture industry. Therefore, getting the chance to experience agriculture practices in a different part of the world seemed like a great way to get work experience and make new connections.
Enjoyed a quick getaway to the Columbia Valley for a wine-tasting experience!
Why did you choose International Rural Exchange Canada?
I chose to go to the USA through International Rural Exchange Canada after hearing a presentation about their programs at the post-secondary institution I was enrolled in. When I called to inquire about the program, they were very helpful and made the whole application process very easy.
I was interested in working with beef cattle as I grew up on a cattle operation myself. Since the USA and Canada have similarities in their beef production, I thought it would be a beneficial work experience opportunity.
What was your favorite part about your host state?
My favorite part about the Columbia Basin in Washington state was the diversity of agriculture in the area. Due to the irrigation systems and the climate, they are able to grow many different kinds of crops that we would be unable to grow where I live.
You could drive for 10 minutes and pass orchards, vineyards, fields of potatoes, beans, watermelons, or onions! I loved being able to experience agriculture from a different perspective.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
I was able to do some solo traveling in Texas as I was taking a several agricultural related courses near Amarillo, which gave me some time to enjoy the southern US and see the sights! I could go wherever I wanted, whenever I wanted!
I went to several museums including the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame, drove down the famous Route 66, attended a ranch rodeo, went to the Tri-State Fair, got to hike the beautiful Palo Duro Canyon State Park, and so much more!
There is nothing else like those early morning feedings and the beautiful sunrises.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
International Rural Exchange Canada helped me through the entire application process which made it easy and stress free to prepare traveling on my own. When I was in the U.S., Experience International made sure I made it to my placement and did check-ins during my time at the farm.
They also helped me during departure, which would have been difficult to navigate on my own due to all the travel requirements during COVID. I felt very supported throughout the entire journey.
Did International Rural Exchange Canada provide specific pre-departure Covid support? If yes, tell us what kind of support you received.
Yes, International Rural Exchange Canada was very thorough with their pre-departure COVID support. They made sure that I had the correct vaccination records to show at the border and informed me of the testing protocol for me to legally fly to the United States. Also, they kept up-to-date on the masking protocol and informed me on what to expect when I arrived at the U.S. border.
How did International Rural Exchange Canada help you stay (and feel) safe abroad amidst the ongoing pandemic?
Due to the fact that I was living on a farm and working mostly with animals or operating farm equipment, I felt very safe at my placement during the pandemic. I was notified of any COVID restrictions that I needed to be aware of before I departed for my placement. Additionally, I was updated on any restriction changes during my placement.
A sunless and dark yet welcoming day visiting the gorgeous Oregon coastline.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
One thing I wished I would have done differently would have been to learn more Spanish before arriving at my placement. Some of my coworkers spoke mostly Spanish so it definitely would have helped with regards to communication. It would have been a prime opportunity to practice my Spanish and become more confident in my speaking abilities.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
At my placement I helped put up the fourth cut of hay and manage the cattle herd. I would spend most of my days on the tractor either raking or baling hay when they were harvesting their export hay. They actually ship it overseas to Japan!
Once that was finished and the cattle were back home, I would do daily chores such as checking on cows or doing any feeding that was needed. Then we would tackle other tasks that needed to be completed such as hauling, sorting or moving cattle, vaccinating or doctoring, or fencing new pastures.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
My hosts treated me like I was part of the family and made sure I got the full American experience while I was working abroad. We went to college football games at Washington State University, and they took me to the Oregon coast and I got to go crabbing!
When winter arrived, I went with some friends skiing at Silver Mountain in Idaho. We also did some fun day trips around the state when we had time, like going to Leavenworth or going wine tasting at local vineyards.
Exploring life outside of the city with an adventurous hike in the heart of Texas!
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I lived with my host family in their home right on the farm I was working at. I really enjoyed my accommodations because I got to know my host family very well. We would eat meals together, play cards, share stories and have great visits. We attended local events together and they were eager to show me different parts of the state and take me on fun trips during my time there.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
I would say that they need to be prepared for the adjustment period. When you first arrive to your placement, you may feel nervous, homesick, or anxious. It is important to realize that everything is new to you and not to be discouraged as you gain your bearings in a different part of the world.
Your host family is there to help and support you so don't be afraid to ask questions or let them know if you need something. After the first month you will feel more comfortable and confident at your placement, so give yourself a chance to adjust.
Would you recommend International Rural Exchange Canada to others? Why?
Yes, I would recommend the A-Way To Work program through International Rural Exchange Canada! They were very professional and helpful throughout the entire application process and made sure that I was supported throughout the entire journey. Experience International (their partners in the U.S.) made sure to check in with me during my placement and were very helpful during my entry and departure into the U.S.
Everything gets better with some cows around! Even with selfies on the farm!
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
For me I'd say that the biggest take away from my time abroad was my own personal growth. I was able to step outside my comfort zone and try something new and exciting and in turn, I learned a lot not only about the field I was working in, but also myself!
I gained some valuable hands-on experience and got the opportunity to do some traveling in the process. I now have lifelong friends in the U.S. and memories that I will treasure forever!
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I would say my time abroad helped me feel more confident in myself in regards to my skill-set working alongside my family. I feel much more confident running farm equipment and driving a truck and trailer. I also feel that I have gained a new perspective after my trip, and I am able to appreciate all that I have in my home country!
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel to me means stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. I was able to get away from what I was used to and test myself to see what I am capable of. In the process, I made some amazing new memories and friends. We still keep in touch and I hope to go back and visit them one day. Also, I hope they will come visit me and see my own operation!
