Greetings to all readers of my story. I think I should start with a brief introduction. My name is Polina, and I turned twenty in November. I was born in the capital of the Belarusian Polesie – a small but very beautiful city, Pinsk. After finishing ninth grade, my mom, my sister, and I left everything behind and moved to Minsk in search of a better life. Since 2020, I have been a law student at the Belarusian State University. During my school years, I attended all sorts of clubs: swimming, gymnastics, chess, ballroom dancing; I studied choreography for several years, and later found my passion in a pop dance group, where I spent no less than 10 years. I also graduated from music school, which I almost always attended with a tantrum and a desire to stay and play in the yard with my friends (the certificate is gathering dust on a shelf somewhere, but I don't regret anything). In my first year, I participated in a million activities at the university, but from the second year on, I immersed myself more in my studies. However, I can't stay still, so I go to the gym whenever possible.

I first heard about exchange programs in 10th grade. A close person gave me advice back then: "Look, you'll graduate from school very soon and will likely enter university. But student years are not just about studying; they are about the opportunity to express yourself and see the world. Definitely approach the administration and ask about student exchange programs." I got really excited about it then and promised myself to grab every chance.

Unfortunately, in the year I entered university, any opportunities to leave the country disappeared for me. The university didn't offer any promising or interesting exchange programs. I had to give up on the ideas.

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

Later, I started hearing about this program more often. I got interested and started watching participants' blogs and looking for various information on the internet. I got fired up! But thoughts like "they were just lucky," "they are chosen ones," "I won't be able to do it" didn't leave my head.

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

I returned to the promise I made to myself back in 10th grade. I started gathering information about the program more consciously and asking questions to participants from previous years.

I learned that the program is for full-time students, aged 18-28, with basic knowledge of English. I also heard from many that in the final years, the chance drops to zero. I am currently in my third year, and the next one is my final year. This year, there are as many chances as there will never be again. "Okay, I need this. I will never forgive myself if I don't put all my efforts into participating in this wonderful program now. I'm in!" From that moment on, I knew for sure that I would spend the summer in America.

I talked to my parents, and they supported me. In their bedroom, there is already a box with money that they will lend me for participation. I am actively brushing up on my English and preparing to sign the contract.

One fine day, I stumbled upon a contest that I am currently participating in. If I win, I will make my parents happy by telling them I'm going at my own expense. Otherwise, I will be proud that I tried my luck and wasn't afraid to take the opportunity.

Now I will answer a couple of questions.

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

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

As for Work and Travel, it is 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 work officially in the USA and travel. To taste American life and experience the feeling of freedom. Honestly, the list could go on and on. But I think if you are already reading this, you have long decided for yourself: "Work and Travel is an opportunity that you need to grab and never let go."

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

Unfortunately, I haven't 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. Still, there is something to remember. Of course, I remember the sea, many new acquaintances, training sessions and performances, and various excursions. I remember the girls and I met some older guys. They were a couple who were dating. They incredibly resembled EeOneGuy and Maryana Ro. Because of this, we even filmed videos with them, pretending we were close friends with such stars. At that time, it seemed like something incredibly cool and interesting.

The second time I went to a youth camp organized by the school. I was 15 then and considered myself quite grown up. I remember the night parties, pool parties, sleepovers on the beach, and walking around the city without adults very well. Back then, freedom and independence felt so strong.

Why did I decide to participate in the program?

As you might have understood, I have been dreaming about this for a relatively long time. The thought that I might actually end up in America very soon drives me crazy. Not might, but will definitely end up there! I want to see the world on the other side of the ocean, breathe the American air, walk along the streets from Netflix series, make acquaintances all over the world, improve my conversational English, and earn some money after all. Moreover, working in the service industry doesn't scare me at all; I have been working at KFC for almost two years and believe I am ready for any difficulties. It doesn't scare me, but only excites me more and sparks my interest.

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

I am very interested in the culture of other countries. I would like to learn about other cultures firsthand, from those who are inside. I will definitely compare what I hear with the information I currently have from other sources. I don't plan to stop at the USA, so getting to know the society and culture of other countries will definitely bear fruit in the future.

As for the culture of my country, I will definitely introduce it to all the guys. 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 a separate 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 take with me to give as gifts 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 that the program will help me overcome the slight shyness I currently have when meeting and talking to new people. To become more open, independent, and perhaps more firm. If I can confidently defend myself and achieve justice for myself, I will be able to do it for others within the framework of my profession.

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

Since my journey in exchange programs is just beginning, it is quite difficult for me to say what I would change. At first glance, I would direct more efforts toward informing young people about the existence of such programs. Because the program itself is currently ideal for me. But I am not sure that all students know about it. Not everyone will be able to take advantage of such an opportunity, but the maximum possible number of students should know that it exists.

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

I see exchange programs in the future as more widespread than they are now. Participating in them will be a common thing for young people, not a luxury. Everyone strives to know the world and get to know another culture. In this regard, the number of such programs is growing, and more sponsors are showing a desire to give opportunities to young people. So to speak, supply and demand are at about the same level. A larger percentage of guys participate in the programs repeatedly or even several times.

My story ends here. My thoughts on this topic wouldn't fit on 33 A4 sheets. 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 just need to look around and grab them. And also, listen to the advice I heard 5 years ago. Thank you all for your attention! See you at the "best photo in the USA 2023" contest.