In Ocean City, I met the Atlantic Ocean for the first time. The introduction was very turbulent, and it seemed to me that the ocean liked me. Judging by the height and strength of the waves, I couldn't stay on my feet for long. I expected to see dolphins, but I could never have foreseen that I would meet their enemies. I encountered a shark while swimming in the Atlantic Ocean. At first, I heard my friend screaming from behind me on the shore, and then I felt the tail hit my shoulder. I didn't feel panic, more like shock. At that moment, everything was in slow motion for me, and I quickly gathered myself and swam to the shore. I made it out of the water safe and sound, thank God. I never expected to meet a shark "face to face." Everything ended well, but still, be careful. So, I had that experience in America too. I can safely put a checkmark next to meeting a shark in the ocean. For my life, one meeting is more than enough.

I made friends with Americans and other program participants from different countries. We shared our knowledge about our traditions and culture, and in turn, our friends shared theirs. It was a cultural exchange. Time really passes differently abroad. There are no relatives or friends or anything familiar here. And as you get closer and make friends, it seems like you've known some of them for a very long time. I loved my team at the "Ocean Side" pizzeria. We always had a friendly atmosphere, and our boss, Janette, said she considered us her family.