As for work, we were given uniforms on the very first day and started learning the basics of being a sandwich artist—sounds pretty cool, right? That’s exactly the position listed on our JobOffer. For those worried that you won't get hired without experience, I can tell you one thing: they will teach you everything here, and it’s not as difficult as it might seem.
Of course, you spend a long time with the same people at work, and it might feel a bit uncomfortable at first (unusual atmosphere, new people, language barrier). However, over time, you might find a true friend in this work environment, just like we did. The main principle is to be an open and positive person, and everything else will fall into place.
By the way, Cirque du Soleil came to Virginia Beach this summer. Guess who bought tickets for the premiere right away? Yes, that was us. We went with our roommates and friends from work, and we got a fireworks display of emotions from the show and a bunch of souvenirs to remember it by. However, I’d like to give a little advice to those planning to visit Las Vegas (and there will definitely be some). It’s better to watch all shows and concerts there. Let me explain why: all the stages and venues in Las Vegas are incredibly huge and equipped specifically for spectacular performances, so that’s where you should really catch various shows. But since we weren't sure if we would visit the West Coast, we decided to play it safe and went to see Cirque du Soleil in Virginia Beach.
I’ll also tell you about an incredible and attractive opportunity specifically for J-1 students and residents of Virginia Beach. I didn't find out about it as early as I would have liked, but still. Every Tuesday, there were meetings at a local church. And don't let the fact that it took place in a church bother you. Nobody here cares about your religion, skin color, etc. At 7:00 PM, they held charity evenings at this church where they fed poor and hungry students. I’m exaggerating, of course, but this was often a place where you could NOT ONLY see but also eat healthy food, which is a huge plus. Many have heard that it can be quite difficult to eat healthy in America because of the large amount of snacks and soda that surrounds you everywhere. At the church, they also offer various trips not far from Virginia Beach that are really interesting and don't cost that much.
I was lucky enough to attend these evenings only twice, and both times were very interesting and definitely filling. That’s where I met some incredibly interesting people whom I still remember with a smile on my face to this day. One very kind woman even gave me two books before I left, for which I am incredibly grateful. Young people, the organizers' children, adults, and, of course, if you try, you can find elderly people full of life and love for others who are eager to share their life stories with you, listen to your adventures, and learn about life in Russia.
On my YouTube channel, you can watch the most detailed and incredibly exciting adventures of two students from Russia in America—me and Ksyusha! Enjoy watching :)
