I welcome all readers of my story. I think I should start with a brief introduction. My name is Polina, in November my third decade started. I was born in the capital of Belarusian Polesia — the small but very beautiful town of Pinsk. After finishing ninth grade my mother, my sister and I left everything behind and moved to Minsk in search of a better life. Since 2020 I have been a student at the Faculty of Law of the Belarusian State University. In my school years I attended all kinds of clubs: swimming, gymnastics, chess, ballroom dancing, I studied choreography for several years, then I found myself in a pop dance group where I practiced for a full 10 years. I also graduated from music school, which I almost always went to in hysterics and wanting to stay and play in the yard with my girlfriends (the certificate of completion is probably gathering dust on a shelf somewhere, but I don't regret anything). In my first year I took part in countless university activities, and from the second year I immersed myself more in my studies. But I can't remain completely without movement, so I go to the gym whenever possible.

I first heard about exchange programs in 10th grade. Back then a close person gave me the advice: "Look, you'll be graduating from school soon and will probably enter university. But student years are not only about studying, they are about the opportunity to show yourself and see the world. Be sure to go to the administration and ask about student exchange programs." I got really excited about it and promised to grab any chance.

Unfortunately, in the year I enrolled any opportunities for me to leave the country disappeared. The university did not offer promising or interesting exchange programs. I had to give up the idea.

And then in the winter of my first year I saw something somewhere about the Work and Travel program for the first time. Where? I don't remember anymore, but I know for sure that at that time this information did not inspire any trust in me. "That doesn't happen. It's a scam!" I thought.

Later I started hearing about this program more and more. I became curious, began watching participants' blogs and searching for various information on the internet. I got fired up! But thoughts like "they were just lucky," "they're chosen," "I won't be able to" did not leave my head.

The turning point was the summer of 2022. One morning I saw on social media the stories of a girl I know personally. Stories from America that made it clear she was there through that very Work and Travel program. It felt like someone threw me a lifeline. "See, if you want it, it's possible!" "This really can happen to you too, just act!!!" I won't lie if I say that at that moment I saw a light at the end of the tunnel.

I returned to the promise I had given myself back in 10th grade. I began to collect information about the program more consciously, asking questions to participants from previous years.

I learned that the program is for full-time students aged 18–28 with a basic knowledge of English. I also heard from many that for graduating-year students the chance tends toward zero. I'm currently in my third year, the next one is my final year. This year the opportunity is as great as it will ever be. "Okay, I need this. I will never forgive myself if I don't direct all my efforts now toward participating in this wonderful program. I'm in!" From that moment on I already know for sure that I will spend the summer in America.

I talked to my parents, and they supported me. There is already a little box with money in their bedroom that they will lend me for participation. I'm actively improving my English and preparing to sign the contract.

One fine day I came across a contest in which I am now participating. If I win — I'll make my parents happy that I will go at my own expense. Otherwise — I'll be proud that I tried my luck and wasn't afraid to take the opportunity.

Now I'll answer a couple of questions.

Youth travels and student exchange programs. What do I know about them?

I know that university exchange programs are when a student goes to the host country (usually for a semester) to study. It's an incredible opportunity to see the world, gain experience and implement the knowledge acquired back home.

As for Work and Travel, it's a chance not just to go to another country, but to fly to another continent. To meet a huge number of wonderful people from different corners of the planet. To officially work in the USA and travel. To taste American life and experience a sense of freedom. Honestly, the list could go on and on. But I think if you're already reading this, you've long ago decided for yourself: "Work and Travel is an opportunity you should seize and never let go."

My experience — a small interesting/funny episode related to youth travels and/or exchange programs.

Unfortunately, I have not had the chance to participate in exchange programs before. But twice in my life I traveled to youth camps by the sea. Both times I went to Bulgaria.

The first time we went to a dance youth camp. I was 13 then, so my freedom was severely limited. However, there is a lot to remember. Of course I remember the sea, many new acquaintances, training and performances, and various excursions. I remember that the girls and I met some older guys. It was a guy and a girl who were dating. They bore an incredible resemblance to IvanGai and Maryana Ro. Because of this we even made videos with them, as if we were close friends with such stars. At the time it seemed incredibly cool and interesting.

The second time I went to a youth camp organized by my school. I was already 15 then and considered myself completely grown up. I clearly remember late-night gatherings, pool parties, sleeping over on the beach, and walks around the city without adults. Back then I felt such a strong sense of freedom and independence.

Why did I decide to participate in the program?

As you may have understood, I've been dreaming about this for quite a long time. The thought that I could really end up in America any minute now drives me crazy. Not "might," but I will definitely be there! I want to see the world on the other side of the ocean, breathe American air, walk the streets from Netflix series, make acquaintances around the world, improve my conversational English, and earn some money after all. Besides, working in the service sector doesn't scare me at all — I've been working at KFC for almost two years and I consider myself ready for any difficulties. It doesn't scare me; it only excites me and arouses my interest.

What do I hope to learn and achieve by getting to know a society and culture new to me and by telling people about the culture of my country?

I'm very interested in the culture of other countries. I would like to learn about other cultures from first-hand sources, from those who are inside them. I will certainly compare what I hear with the information I currently have from other sources. I don't plan to focus only on the USA, so getting to know the societies and cultures of other countries will definitely pay off in the future.

As for the culture of my country, I will definitely introduce it to everyone. I will tell them about my wonderful hometown and about our country. I will explain to everyone that Belarus is not a city in some country, but an independent sovereign state. I will introduce Americans and others to our traditions and history. By the way, I have already chosen which national treats I will bring with me to give when meeting people.

How will participating in the program help me in my future career?

My future profession is a lawyer. Lawyers more than anyone need communication skills, the ability to find an approach to people, including residents of other countries, and a good level of English. I am sure the program will help me overcome the slight shyness I have when meeting and interacting with new people. To become more open, independent, and possibly firmer. If I can confidently defend myself and achieve justice for myself, then I will be able to do the same for others within my profession.

What can be improved in the programs — if I were in charge of exchanges, what would I change?

Since my path in exchange programs is only beginning, it's quite difficult for me to say what I would change. At first glance, I would direct more effort toward informing young people about the existence of such programs. The program itself is currently ideal for me. But I'm not sure that all students know about it. Not everyone will be able to take advantage of such an opportunity, but as many students as possible should know that it exists.

What will the programs be like in 20 years? In 50?

I see exchange programs in the future as more widespread than they are now. Participation in them will be a common thing for young people, not a luxury. Everyone strives to learn about the world and get to know another culture. As a result, the number of such programs will grow, and more sponsors will want to give young people the opportunity. So to speak, supply and demand will be roughly on the same level. A larger percentage of young people will participate in the programs repeatedly or even several times.

This is where my story ends. My thoughts on this topic couldn't fit even on 33 A4 pages. I want to wish everyone to listen to and hear themselves, to dream, and to take risks. Life gives us a sea of opportunities every day; you only need to look around and grab them. And also listen to the piece of advice I heard 5 years ago. Thank you all for your attention! See you at the "Best Photo in the USA 2023" contest.