To sum up: this was the most unusual journey of my life! Honestly, at first, I wasn't as impressed by America as I had expected. But then, day by day, I realized that I liked America more and more.

You start getting used to American life quickly because it seems incredibly comfortable. It's as if everything is made for people, for every individual, and that is captivating! But the greatest happiness lies in the people who surround you. That is what made my summer! Dozens of interesting people, many of whom became not just good acquaintances but true friends, thousands of shared memories, self-discovery, and new perspectives on life. And most importantly – stepping out of my comfort zone – that was my summer of 2015.

What worked out and what didn't? I managed to overcome the language barrier, blend into the American rhythm of life, figure out how to work in America, how to find a job and get hired, understand all the everyday aspects, and get a little feel for the spirit of America. And as for what didn't work out (my global trip to the West Coast) - no regrets. I realized that America deserves more than a week-long 'whirlwind' trip that I could have afforded.

Trips to New York, Washington DC, Norfolk, Williamsburg, and a long stay in Virginia Beach seemed sufficient for my first time in America. More to come!!!

New York

Norfolk

Virginia Beach

To truly feel America, you need time, as well as a global trip across the states, which will allow you not only to see all the hyped and most famous places like the Hollywood sign in LA or the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, but also to talk to different people, compare living conditions in different states, and look at various aspects of American life from a different angle. That is why my main American journey is still ahead of me.

America hasn't gone anywhere... This was just the beginning, a bright and unforgettable beginning!