What is the Work and Travel program? Why are so many undergraduate and graduate students flocking to the USA? What are the benefits? Or what are the downsides?

I am an ordinary graduate student at Al-Farabi University in Almaty, Kazakhstan. For example, let me answer the question: "Why should I go?" In general, going abroad, especially to America, is my main dream and goal. During my bachelor's degree, yes, it was just a dream. An impossible dream. Because not everyone gets the chance to go to America, right? But now it's not a dream, it's a goal. Because I have fully prepared myself. I signed up for English courses, raised my level to pre-intermediate, and am now studying at the intermediate level. Yes, you can go without knowing English. But do I need that? My goal in going is, first of all, to get to know the culture of the country I dreamed of, to communicate freely with its people, and to integrate into that place.

This is the vision board I made during my bachelor's degree. Do you believe it? One of the most important things I depicted was America, specifically New York City. Just imagine standing in Times Square and feeling that you have achieved all of this... It is, of course, your hard work. With hard work and moving forward, you can achieve anything. There are no limits in this life; the limits are only in our minds. Turning a "no" into a "yes" is in our own hands. Words to think about.

The main point: be different. Not like others. Earn a lot of money, learn a language, meet new people, broaden your horizons, and take photos in places that many dream of visiting until they are old. You can do it.

As I mentioned, I grew up in a simple family in a rural area. For me, America was hard to even dream about. Do you believe it? How much I limited myself? But now, with firm steps, I am confident that I can do it.

What is the current Work and Travel program like? I, of course, have not been there myself, but I decided to gather some information and write about it. America is a land of dreams, a home for students who have stood tall and proven themselves. We all know that not everyone can do it. Most importantly, in the images of students who have returned from the current program, one can clearly see joy, happiness, and a zest for life. My friend recently returned. Do you know with what happiness he talked about America? His life and self-confidence increased a thousandfold; even his manner of speaking, thinking, and perspective changed. Isn't that the main reason? America changes a person. It opens one's eyes.

Just imagine, America. In a big state. How wonderful! Yes, you will miss your family, it will be hard. But my friend, you are in America! Even imagining it is wonderful.

What are the pluses? If there were no pluses, no one would strive for this. My goal is not to go there and make money. I am still young, I will have time to make money. My main goal is to live in America for a long time. Do you think I will have this chance later? Maybe yes, but who guarantees it? And with the Work and Travel program, students can go. That is why I want to take full advantage of this chance.

In addition, I will find a new environment. That is, I am sure that I will interact and make friends with foreign citizens. I will speak English and improve my level. I will interact and integrate with the American people. I will see with my own eyes the places I saw in movies and cartoons when I was little. That is why it is worth going to America.

How do I imagine the program in 30 or 40 years? You only see the program you love in a good light, of course. You are guaranteed that it will only be good in the future. However, in my opinion, I see myself signing contracts with several companies, working in other states, etc.

A year ago, the phrase "spend the summer in America" seemed like something out of a science fiction series to me. I remember reading the amazing stories of students about their summer in the USA with burning eyes, and I dream of experiencing these wonderful emotions myself.

I want to fulfill the dream of the little Arujan inside me this way. And I want to realize this dream with the International Exchange Center. I am grateful for the chance you have given and for organizing the competition!

"Travel, you won't regret it. iPhones, dresses, and other material things are good. But the impressions from travel cannot be replaced by anything."