How have your past experiences with international education influenced the work you do today?
I started working at Spirit just months after coming back from traveling solo throughout Europe. I think that trip really made me passionate about spreading the love for travel. I learned so much about myself and the world during those three months. When you travel you get to see how similar all people are, but you also get to experience cultural differences first hand. It really gives you perspective on how little cultural differences can influence an interaction and how empathy and understanding are needed when doing anything, from making friends, to doing business, to enacting foreign policy.
Tina Frank and Spirit Cultural Exchange participants in Utah.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?
As head of our marketing department I get to see all of the photos and messages we receive on social media. Our participants get to visit some stunning locations, and take part in fantastic activities. I love seeing their photos. Some of the things our participants write to us are so touching. It is amazing to me to see participants original English interviews and then read their very eloquent reflection on their programs. Their English has improved so much and their horizons have expanded. If you do come on a Spirit program, send us your photos and feedback! It makes our day to see first hand what our exchange programs mean to you.
Tina traveling in Beijing, China at the Temple of Heaven.
How can students prepare for their programs with Spirit Cultural Exchange?
Students should definitely keep practicing their English and do research on the places they are going. I have seen so many students get admitted on to our programs, and then never speak a word of English until they arrive in the US. The time between acceptance and arrival is the time to keep practicing! It will make your first few weeks here so much easier. You lose so much language ability when you don't use it.
Also, not all of our programs take place in large cities that people have heard of, so do your research on where you are going. Is it cold, do I need a jacket, is it warm, do I need shorts? Will there be public transportation or will I need to invest in a bicycle to get around? Just knowing what to expect when you arrive will alleviate some of your culture shock and will make it easier to settle in.
Who is the most successful type of participant, and what kind of qualities do they possess?
Participants who are willing to talk to people in English generally do the best on the program. You don’t have to be outgoing, but being willing to make language mistakes and learn from them will help you improve your English and make new friends. Students should also come to the US with an open mind. Students who arrive in the country with a vision of exactly how their program will be generally have a tougher time adapting to live in the US and being flexible when challenges arise. So really, anyone who is willing to make language mistakes and be flexible will do well on our programs.
Tina traveling in Istanbul, Turkey at the Topkapi Palace Museum.
What is something you want future students to know about Spirit Cultural Exchange?
Future students should know that everyone who works at Spirit has had some sort of cultural exchange experience and wants you to have an amazing time here in the US. Our entire staff has traveled abroad, and most people have lived abroad, or taken part in an exchange. We love traveling and want you to love it too, so if you have any issues or questions, don’t be afraid to contact us for help. We have been in your shoes and we want you to have a great time.
Why should future students be excited to join a Spirit Cultural Exchange program?
Students should be excited to come on one of our programs because we truly offer an immersive program in the US. You will get the opportunity to live in America, make friends with locals, and train or work at an American business. No matter which program you join, you will be gaining life skills, and if you are on the Intern and Trainee program you will be learning skills to further your career.
