Spirit Cultural Exchange

Living outside your hometown can be scary sometimes as is not something that you do everyday, or maybe you haven't had the chance to leave your house or small town for longer than 1 week. This was a great experience and journey for me as i had the chance to apply what I have learn back on my school days plus learning more not only from my personal knowledge about industry, machinery, people. Nonthless, this wasnt the only fun part, I was able to meet and live into another work culture, changing schdules working on different areas, experience different traditions. I like to tell and hear stories, fortunately USA, is full of stories from past present and future, with different people, some of them got here for work, improving life and I think I like that vision of changing your scenario for a better one, in which you can learn about other and about yourself.

I have navigated challenges such as adapting to different work cultures, understanding industry regulations, and staying competitive in a fast-paced market. These experiences have strengthened my resilience and ability to thrive in diverse professional settings.Working in the U.S. has also exposed me to new technologies, industry best practices, and leadership styles that have shaped my professional growth.I am truly enjoying my time in the United States, exploring different places and experiencing the diverse culture. Each destination offers something unique, from vibrant cities to breathtaking natural landscapes. Traveling has given me the chance to meet new people, try different cuisines, and learn about American history and traditions. This journey has been both exciting and enriching, allowing me to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the country.

My time in the USA has been an incredible mix of professional growth and cultural exploration. Through my training internship, I’ve gained hands-on experience in energy auditing, learning how to identify high-energy-consuming measures and recommend cost-effective upgrades. I’ve also deepened my understanding of the US market, best practices, and innovative energy-saving technologies. Beyond work, I’ve had the chance to explore stunning places like Mount Baker and Washington Park Arboretum, enjoy meals with Americans, and immerse myself in local culture. Each experience whether visiting museums or simply engaging in conversations has broadened my perspective. This journey has not only enhanced my technical skills but also helped me connect with people from diverse backgrounds. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned and continue growing both professionally and personally.

I had an unforgettable experience during my J1 visa program in the USA, filled with countless memorable moments and wonderful firsts. I saw snow for the first time, attended my first ice hockey game, and fulfilled a long-time dream of watching a live wrestling match, which I had only seen on TV back in India. The beautiful fall colors were breathtaking and brought me a sense of peace. Exploring vibrant American cities made my journey even more enriching. New York’s Times Square dazzled with its energy, Miami Beach was a slice of paradise, and Boston, where I spent most of my time, offered a blend of history and modern charm. Strolling through lively night streets was a joy in itself. The warmth and friendliness of my American coworkers and the people I met made me feel truly welcome. Thank you for supporting this amazing cultural exchange opportunity and creating memories that I will cherish forever

My Experience as a Special Education Teacher Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of working as a special education teacher, a role that has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. My journey in this field has been defined by my commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment tailored to the unique needs of each student. I have worked with students across various age groups and with diverse disabilities, including learning disabilities, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, and emotional and behavioral challenges. Each student has brought their own strengths and needs, which has driven me to continuously adapt my teaching methods and find creative ways to engage them in the learning process. Collaboration has been a cornerstone of my work. I have partnered closely with general education teachers, speech and occupational therapists, and parents to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that address both academic goals and personal growth. Through these collaborations, I have gained a deep appreciation for the importance of teamwork and communication in ensuring each student’s success. In the classroom, I prioritize fostering a positive and patient atmosphere where students feel safe and valued. I use a variety of strategies, including differentiated instruction, hands-on activities, and assistive technologies, to help my students achieve their goals. Watching their progress—whether it’s mastering a new skill, improving their social interactions, or gaining confidence—has been incredibly fulfilling. These two years have reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of advocating for students with special needs. While I have grown significantly as a teacher, I remain eager to continue learning and refining my practices to better serve my students and help them reach their full potential.

Since the beginning of this experience, it has been amazing, I have grown tremendously as a professional and as a person. I am grateful to live and to the Spirit program for allowing me and helping me develop in a different environment than the one I was used to. Growing up the way I have done this time has fulfilled me and I feel that now I can shine in the way I expected. I hope to continue learning every day from all the experiences at school with my students, from new friends, and from everyone around me.

I have been so blessed with this teaching opportunity. It has all been great so far and I am so satisfied and pleased with it. It has definitely surpassed my expectations. The host school is quite well equipped and organized. The instructional support on campus has been outstanding and the adaptation process both at school and the community has been rather easy and progressive. I have loved every second of this experience! I cannot complain and I am so thankful to God and Spirit for making this experience possible. Regards, Yeferson Romaña Correa

Teaching in the US has been my goal 5 years ago, and Spirit Cultural Exchange helped me make it happen. They assisted me every step of the way, as I transition from the Philippines to the US. Teaching in the USA also brought me to places, I only saw on movies. I will be forever grateful for this once in a lifetime opportunity.

A hybrid is a mix of cultures, experiences or race, mine has been a journey of blending my Kenyan experience and culture as a teacher to the experience I am gaining in America. In Kenya, I taught in less diverse classes. The education system was quite different from the American experience: My students in Kenya wore uniforms, used the physical classroom, worked towards excelling in the national exam (summative assessement). Kenya has single gendered schools. The teaching approaches were more lecture- centred, because the class sizes were larger, and teaching geared towards meeting the expectations of the national exam. The American teaching experience has come with a more inclusive diverse teaching environment that provides for differentition stategies that allow the teacher to instruct both online and in physical spaces. The teaching in America is more student-centred. I have blended my experience in America to my teaching expereince in Kenya to become a hybrid. I have had fun expereincing the American culture, and interacting with people in the community: When I attended a haloween party, it reminded me of a cultural tradition in my luo called 'tero beru.'The season changes have been a beautiful thing to see. I really look forward to my winter, and spring. I have had a chance to experience American culinary and foods like Apple cakes, and turkey.Currently I am having a good time expereincing thankinsgiving and christmas plans and preparations. I attended the summer festival in Milauwkee- Wiscocin. Spirit has been a wonder partner through the placement opportunity, and helping get he Visa. The monthly checkins have been a good opportunity to reflect on my experiences. I believe this expereince will make me a better and a hybrid teacher.

I feel so great with Ms. Lauren! She is very friendly, very accommodating and she will really help you if you do have concerns. She will also make follow-ups how I am going here in Arizona. Spirit Cultural Exchange has given me an opportunity to teacher in the USA and because of the chance that they have given to me, I was able to make friends here and get a chance to travel in the others states like in Chicago, Las Vegas, Memphis, New Orleans and Nashville. Thank you for Cultural Spirit Exchange!

My adventure in the United States has been incredible. Not just from Spirit management and my host company, the experience on a personal level has been very positive. I have always wanted to travel to the United States, and I had many curiosities about what life would be like there. Thanks to SPIRIT, I have grown at a professional level within a very enriching work environment. It is undoubtedly one of the best professional experiences of my short professional career. I have already recommended Spirit services to some friends and would do so again.

I feel so great with Ms. Lauren! She is very friendly, very accommodating and she will really help you if you do have concerns. She will also make follow-ups how I am going here in Arizona. Spirit Cultural Exchange has given me an opportunity to teacher in the USA and because of the chance that they have given to me, I was able to make friends here and get a chance to travel in the others states like in Chicago, Las Vegas, Memphis, New Orleans and Nashville. Thank you for Cultural Spirit Exchange!

This experience was so incredibly rewarding. I went to the Galapagos Islands for 2 weeks to teach English at a local school. A lot of people don't know that there is a permanent population on the islands. I lived on Isabela Island and worked at a primary school teaching 1st-7th grade students. I was paired with the permanent English teacher and helped as a teacher aid, grammar consultant, pronunciation consultant, and would help come up with games to support the lesson. A good example is that the 6th graders were learning how to tell time in English, so I taught them how to play, What Time is it Mr. Wolf? It is a game similar to Red light Green light, so it got the kids moving, involved, and also speaking English! In addition to an amazing volunteer experience living in the Galapagos Island is like being in another world. There are animals everywhere! You don't even have to try to see them, you just walk down to the beach and see sea lions, marine iguanas, sea turtles, sting rays, and so many more! I feel so humbled to have taken part in this program. Thank you Spirit Cultural Exchange!

Our Design team is amazing. They are all hard-worker and professional designers. They have been letting me know new and advanced skills that I had never learned. There are lots of things to learn as an Intern. I strongly recommend my Host Company.

I liked getting to learn to different cultural backgrounds. While my time at the Host Company I got to share with different people my knowledges and they did the same. My manager encouraged me to develop my creativity and my decision making. They were always on the lookout for my learning.

I mostly like the intense training that I have received during those stressful and pressuring times that we have a lot of orders. The stress I felt then was a good stress wherein I felt fulfilled that I was able to overcome the pressure in our kitchen. I also love my Host Company family most especially the kitchen staff. Our executive chef is very knowledgeable in his craft and I was able to learn a lot from him.

I've work with a lot of chefs and they told me they never seen any hotel before who let the interns cook, like literally on the line and searing and all because usually they just let interns in the back of the kitchen peeling potatoes, so having interns in this hotel will help those fresh graduates to get out of their comfort zone and face the real world of culinary and became their stepping stone.

My supervisor is an excellent mentor to us. We really learned a lot from him from speaking English and how to work great in the Kitchen, and also the H.R. Department is very active to all the J-1 she always organized J-1 meeting every month for us to have a chance to meet other J-1 in Miami.

My supervisors were very patient and great teachers. I learned a large amount of practical skills here that will certainly benefit me in my future career. My internship was also very hands on. Aside from the practical skills I learned, I was privileged to attend Court proceedings, trials, depositions, and expert witness interviews. Seeing the day-to-day life of an attorney was eye-opening and solidified my decision to pursue a career in the legal field.

This Host Company is the top 3 of the hotel it was a great experience and I'm thankful to my sponsor to give a chance to work at this Host Company and work with professional chefs and always help guide and give knowledge and new menu all 3 seasons, thanks for the heart.

My first favorite experience has been working alongside my supervisor who has trained and motivated me to do more within the Hospitality Industry and how to run the front desk department and also the housekeeping department. Working alongside my supervisor have been my most exciting experience, I learned so much from him and I am now more confident when applying for jobs in UK. I would really like to do my graduating placement at the Host Company as a front desk manager as I've been front desk supervisor for both my 1st and 2nd rotation and also partially my 3rd as I was moved to work in another building as innkeeper. I am so happy with my decision of doing this placement as it opened my eyes and opened me to wonderful opportunities and job experience that I never thought I'd accomplish at this age of 22. I look forward to being a front desk manger someday as well as director of operations and hopefully work my way up to becoming a General Manager. My favorite experience has also been seeing the owners on site. They have been great help and support to us interns and I am really grateful for our university to have such contacts, bonds and internship programs with owner. They see the future for hospitality and has so far encouraged and push us young people in the tourism industry to have great opportunities and job experience.

Everyone is very nice and caring here. They have great patience to me and are willing to answer my questions and helping to figure out my issues at work. My boss is a generous person, and my colleagues take me out for dinners and parties. They are my friends here.

This organization is doing incredible work and it's an honor to be part of a team of like-minded individuals trying to make the world a better place. The staff is incredibly friendly and willing to help. The team always made sure I was learning and improving my skills -- which is something done for all staff members.

I liked the people that I was working with, they made my experience amazing. I made a lot of friends from all over the world that I will be in touch for a long time. Training for work, classes, presentation of my country, graduation ceremony, and all the fun activities I was in charge of or I participate.

They will train you on each kitchen station. Every chef is very helpful to teach you kitchen skills. You will be working in close contact with each different Kitchen department head so you get valuables knowledge about different principals and skills of kitchen management. Overall every chef in this host company are very talented and helpful to provide you with great kitchen training and kitchen experience.

Host company has given me training according to Internship plan. Colleagues are very friendly and helped me in every stage of my internship. Senior management was very cooperative and helped me in every single aspect of this internship. The knowledge that I acquired during this period taught me how to face challenges and keep up the pace with life. This is the best experience of life and this Host Company has taught me to stand strong on my career path.

Very thankful for the opportunity of being able to train at this Host Company. Everyone including all of the management team has always been very professional, polite and very helpful when needed. I think when learning and being an intern isn't always easy since you go from one department to another one and have to recognize what you think is being done well or bad. Lots of fun and I hope to be back on Holidays some day!

I liked all the staff they are friendly and easy to get along with. Especially our Executive Chef he makes sure that all his staffs our doing great and if ever there was a problem, he resolved it right away. Aside from that my training here was so unforgettable I've learned a lot not only for special skills but also how to deal with different kind of attitudes of my workmates.

I would 100% recommend it as it is one of the best hotels in the area. People will be trained by experts and in an environment where you are always working and dealing with different situations. Being such a busy hotel, prospect trainees will find the opportunity of being trained in different scenarios and cases. Everybody at the hotel is always willing to help and teach, it is a great place to grow and learn.

I believe that everyone in my country especially in the hospitality field have always been dreaming to experience the wonders of United states; with the help of Spirit Cultural Exchange, I am very lucky and privileged enough to be given an opportunity to set foot on the Land of The Brave for the second time. I had my first internship right after my graduation way back in 2015. I was training in an exclusive golf club in the south suburb of Chicago. February of 2018 when I flew to Atlanta Georgia, I am quite excited and looking forward to see what kind of fortune awaits in my new host company, Chateau Elan Winery and Resort. I can still remember the first time I saw this beautiful jem, it reminds me of some Disney movies where in the Princess waves her hand on top of this huge castle surrounded with beautifully arranged grasses and flowers. There are 7 different restaurant outlets in the property where in rotations of interns takes place (1) Versailles Restaurant features a gourmet American Cuisine buffet as well as a set menu with a modern twist that includes some regional favorites and chargrilled steaks; (2) Marc Restaurant prepares a regularly-changing lunch and dinner menu focusing on southern classics and regional highlights featuring small plates, large butcher cuts and house-made desserts; (3) Fleur-de-Lis prepares gourmet breakfasts and lunch dishes served using the choicest of healthy ingredients; (4) Paddy's Irish Pub is a spirited pub serving up traditional Irish food, beverage, and live music; (5) The Sarazen’s Bar & Grille is an All-American menu featuring grilled meats, sandwiches and salads, also offers a large variety of spirits with a focus on hand-crafted cocktails; (6) L’Auberge serves a range of light snacks and dinner item, a full bar with a wide selection of beers, cocktails, spirits, and wines and it has a relaxed sports-bar atmosphere with large screen televisions, and pool tables; (7) Le Soleil Pool Bar features a light selection of refreshing sandwiches, salads, and snacks to accompany their favorite poolside cocktail. I was assigned at Marc Restaurant and started as Server Assistant. My role is to assists the server by helping them out with their opening and closing sideworks, setting and clearing tables, refilling water glasses in the tables, running food to the guests, and the like. Being a server assistant for 2 months taught me to have patience, to take initiative and especially to always put the best effort in everything because eventually everyone will see it and all of your hard work will be paid off. My manager talked to me after a busy Saturday night shift and told me that he and the Winery Director are planning on giving me a shot of as a winery server. I told myself then that this is the chance you've been waiting for, don't let these people believe in you down. The official training as a server started and It was hard at first, I feel pressured because there are so many things to learn. At Marc I have to be my own bartender, my own Barista, my own sommelier and a food server. But with the help of my trainers, Robert, Nelli and Mai, I was able to pass it and officially became one of them. It was fulfilling because I know how tough it is to become a server in a fine dining restaurant like Marc. I realized how fulfilling it is when guest truly appreciate your service, yes tip is something that all servers look up to but the words of appreciation became my fuel to work hard and be more passionate in this industry. Truly, working at Chateau Elan is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to do what you love at the premier resort destination in the Southeast. Now that I'm on my last quarter of my internship at Chateau Elan I can speak on behalf of the other interns that this didn't go as easy as the people in our country may think of, the fact that we are thousands miles away from our loved ones brought stress, depression and anxiety to each and everyone of us. Living the what they called “American Dream” with my co-intern is one of the best and most unforgettable memory of my internship journey. When I came here 8 months ago I have no idea what would happen, but who would have thought that within that period of time I’ll be able to create friendships to those who are once strangers to me. Aside from my family, my co-interns are also part of my support system. Some might think that this internship is all about fun, shopping, party, etc.. but it’s actually more than that. We have our struggles and down times and that’s when these people come to play, to cheer you up and make you feel better about yourself again. Also, I couldn't miss the part of being surrounded with my American friends who let me experience so many stuffs that I haven't done before. Rachel is the closest to me, she is from Georgia and I love her for being so genuine and pure and for letting me in to her home where I met her wonderful family. This internship program helped me learn the American culture and at the same time I myself was able to share t very own culture to the Americans. Through this program i can gain international experience which will be a big help on my future career goals. This whole internship training taught me to become independent, to value hard worked money, to stand for what you think is right and that there's nothing wrong with saying "NO", to believe that you get in life what you have the courage to ask for and be Limitless! I still have 4 more months to go and I’ll make sure that everyday counts!

My entire experience before and during my trip to Ecuador was absolutely fantastic. Spirit Cultural Exchange seamlessly helped me plan my entire trip on relatively short notice, and they thoroughly answered all my questions and concerns. My classes at Simon Bolivar were educational and interesting, and the professors, as well as the community, helped me adjust during my stay. My host family made me feel right at home; they welcomed me and practiced Spanish with me whenever possible. I felt like I had a support system the whole time.

Hello Everyone. I'am almost completing my Culinary Program in Milwaukee as far it was a great and unforgettable experience in my life, where I met with lot of people who are now like a family to me. This programme gave me an opportunity to work with experienced chefs, under whom i improved my culinary skills to a further extent by improving both technically and practically. Coming to the Spirit team they were always been helpful to me as i was new to the country and i was all alone with no friends here, in a complete new environment being alone i always had a support from the spirit team. I always approached spirit in case i needed any help or support. I'am very touched by the help and support they always showed towards me. Thanks to all the SPIRIT TEAM.

I made very good friends while I was there, I knew the American culture, the way of life. I learned to deal with my own problems, to interact with people different than me (culturally speaking). My co-workers were very supportive with me and they were kind at all times. It was an unforgettable experience.

What a once in a lifetime experience I had with Spirit Cultural Exchange. I had a very wonderful experience volunteering abroad. Along with Spirit Exchange and their partners in Quito, Ecuador --Simon Bolivar School-- there was constant friendly assistance with any and all needs that arouse. Spirit Exchange is very organized and wants to help make you time abroad in Ecuador something you will never forget. Within the three weeks I was in Ecuador, I met new friends from all over the world, traveled to some amazing sites, and was able to help those who needed it. It was a wonderful experience and I am so thankful for Spirit Cultural Exchange and all they did for me!

The four weeks I spent in Ecuador were life changing!!! I couldn't ask for more helpful and responsive people to work with. I had a very positive experience working with Spirit Cultural Exchange, as well as Simon Bolivar Spanish School. My host family made me feel welcome and comfortable. I did not feel unsafe at all during my time in Ecuador. I met people of all ages and from all over the world through my volunteer project and Simon Bolivar. My volunteer project was very rewarding and it was great to make a direct impact on the people I was working with. Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing about my time in Ecuador.

This program was absolutely amazing. I was more than blessed with this opportunity to be abroad for this part of the summer. I have learned so much about not only Ecuador and its culture, but I have learned so much about myself. Traveling alone in a foreign country is one of the best ways to get to know yourself on a deeper and more personal level. I have realized my own strength, power and control over my attitude, actions and reactions. This trip has been a stepping-stone for me into a new level of self-awareness and personal serenity. I am so blessed that I have been given this time to confirm that my passion for serving is what I want to continue to pursue the rest of my life. It is so important to me that I continue to fulfill my purpose in God through servitude. In the future, I plan to return to Ecuador with bigger plans and a bigger outreach to serve. I am so excited for the future and I cannot wait to see how the impact of this trip extends into other parts of my life. Thanks to Spirit Cultural Exchange Program, which has made this miracle trip happen for me. Thank you all for believing in me and blessing me with the opportunity to serve, grow and explore in Ecuador. I am so grateful to each and every one of you who has made this possible at Spirit, especially Kathleen and April. Thank you so much for your time, energy, and faith in me! They're awesome!