Work & Travel USA Program

    A few weeks back, my roommate stumbled upon a Chinese Christian church. Everyone in the church showed exceptional warmth—the ministers and pastors’ wives often provided us student workers with free daily essentials. There was Aunt Meilan, who once cooked a giant pot of curry so soul-warming that I almost cried. After delivering the curry to our door, she led my first-ever prayer session before dinner, which was a quietly miraculous experience. My roommate told me that they’d attended several prayers already, finding them comforting too.     Lately I’ve notched up small victories at work—consistently hitting daily targets. This morning, when scrolling through my phone, I discovered my manager’s 11 PM message from yesterday: “Perfect completion of today’s goals!” That achievement earned me a spin on the reward wheel today—and I landed multiple prizes! This wonderful experience has kept me driven every single day since. One benefit of working morning shifts is finishing relatively early, typically around 4 or 5 PM. Recently after clocking out, I have frequently gone alone to sit by the seaside, quietly observing the scenery. Gazing at the boundless ocean—deep and blue—I recall animated films or movies from my childhood featuring mermaids and sea adventures. New Mexico     Later, we reviewed the surveillance cameras showing thieves who made no attempt to cover their faces, but they were unfamiliar to us all. Reporting to the police that night proved impossible, because no officers were available for immediate dispatch at night. So we could only file the report the following morning. Mr. Huang  Location:WI     Another week passed swiftly—time truly flew when routines settled. With over half of my internship days in the U.S. gone, I found that accustomed routines accelerated the days. After my new Chinese friend moved in, we’ve done everything together: we jogged together every morning, took evening walks after work, and shopped at supermarkets jointly.     Regular physical activity enabled us to connect more closely with community members. Whenever I started my shift, residents who saw me offered friendly greetings and high-fives. Everyone in this neighborhood was so warm-hearted, which made the work environment quite pleasant.     After completing my first month interning at the surf shop, I finally explored the coastal area thoroughly. Last week I joined a dolphin-watching tour with a local captain whom regular customers recommended. When I watched dolphins leap from the water at dawn, the sight deeply moved me. I also experienced parasailing; the aerial view of the emerald coastline was so magical! Then I understood why seasoned surfers at our shop always said, "Coastal life means nothing without adventure."     After each shift, I lingered at the beach daily—either practicing paddling with shop boards or watching sunsets on the sand. This internship has given me far more than I ever anticipated.

09/04 2025

Work & Travel USA Program

    Yesterday afternoon we fueled up at a random restaurant before the "shopping battle." Then came the real deal: we hit every floor and main areas in this mall nonstop till 9 PM. Only when we finally collapsed into chairs did we feel our sore legs and total exhaustion—that shopping marathon drained us!  While we were shopping, we stumbled upon a HeyTea store, which was a total surprise! Seeing a familiar brand abroad gave us instant comfort. We each grabbed a drink to test its US flavor. It turns out we loved it! Their brown sugar boba milk tea, with chewier pearls, perfect sweetness, and extra creamy texture, topped the charts. Surprisingly, a WeChat scan-to-order QR code was at the entrance, just like back home! Using it felt completely effortless, melting away our tension in seconds.     HeyTea's rocking it here, Chinese expats and many locals love it! Just like our research discovered, they prioritize quality control and calorie transparency (every menu item shows numbers). What’s more, Heytea regularly rolls out collaborative products, pop-up events, and community-focused marketing, which are all tailored for US tastes. Overall, while the vibe differs slightly from China, that premium HeyTea quality stays solid. Miss Xie  Location:New Mexico   The sixth week brought the blazing sun as usual, its heat already seeping into the metal handrail during guard shift change. My main task today—restocking the first-aid kit. Under the scorching sun, the tweezers and scissors gleamed with a cool metallic sheen, yet my every movement felt like a contest against the searing beach.      On the way back, my fingers brushed against the cool whistle hanging on my chest. No longer just a tool, it had etched upon my heart an emblem of guardianship: every precise repair under the sun, every gentle reassurance—these are what keep others' summer safe and happy. Each patrol was a precious escort through the safety and the happiness on the beach.     This week brought both events and rewards. Though now working nine and a half hours daily (time feels perpetually short), the pace remains manageable—just intensely productive. And every day I switch between shifts and workouts. What’ s more, following recent incidents at local pools (lifeguards distracted by phones, others neglecting duties), our supervisor organized a poolside re-education briefing Tuesday night. Despite its serious purpose, the atmosphere stayed light, he made sure everyone was fed before starting. Surprisingly, I met a guy from Xinjiang, China! Finally, I have someone to speak Chinese with!   He’s been transferred here and will work at our pool—so nice to have a teammate-to-be!! This weekend, due to staff rotations, I was assigned to coastal duty near my original pool. Standing guard with the sea breeze on my skin felt pretty pleasant. Counting it up, I realized there’s just over a month left! I’ll savor every moment while anticipating what’s ahead.         sun waterproof bags at a conspicuous spot on the shelf waterproof bags at a conspicuous spot on the shelf.     Though repetitive tasks sometimes drag, that spark of pride when matching customers with perfect gear makes it all worthwhile. I'm looking forward to learning more about operations next month!

08/29 2025

Work & Travel USA Program

            When it comes to getting along with coworkers, I’ve developed a great rapport with a Colombian colleague. We regularly swap snacks (his hometown treats for my Chinese goodies). He said I’m his favorite coworker because we partner so smoothly. Another colleague, Victoria, also mentioned that she likes working with me the most! It’s amazing to realize I’ve become this well-liked! Personally, Victoria remains my top pick for teamwork- we just click!   What’s more, my roommates and I recently connected with elders from a Chinese church. During their last visit, they brought delicious homemade pumpkin cakes that touched us deeply. A few days back, they even had us list grocery needs, then bought everything at an Asian market and covered all costs themselves! Tonight, they’ll deliver those supplies and share dinner with us. They’ve also extended ongoing invites: free Chinese meals every last Sunday of the month, plus Tuesday Walmart trips if needed. Just yesterday, three of us helped them move, wrapping up with a Chinatown dinner! Mr. Huang  Location:WI     My crew’s a mini UN: Cassidy (sunny American local) and Gabe (meticulous Brazilian trainee). On rotation, we’ve got each other’s backs. English flows smoother now, stumbles fading and our smile speak the loudest anyway. Mr. Wu  Location: VA     Another week of fulfilling routines: waking up to run, cooking meals, working shifts, gym sessions, and sleep—each day following this pattern. Since I typically return to the dormitory past 9 PM, I treasured these limited post-work hours, using them to keep practicing my mixing. Consistency remains paramount.     Over the weekend, I visited a club—acclaimed as North America’s finest and fifth globally—that I’d been eager to check out, wanting to compare it with clubs back in China. That evening introduced me to nice people: exchange students from Washington and many music lovers. This experience reaffirmed music's universal language, crossing borders as a great way to connect. Miss Yang  Location: VA     Last week’s internship at the surf shop brimmed with sunshine and energy. Located near the beach, the store attracts a steady stream of customers carrying surfboards daily. My primary responsibilities included assisting with inventory management, merchandise displays, and addressing basic customer inquiries. With peak tourist season in full swing, crowds pour in, especially on weekends, when many visitors rent surfboards or purchase sun protection gear.     Although occasional busy periods induced temporary disorientation, the team consistently maintains a supportive atmosphere where assistance is readily available. I now aim to develop proficiency in independently handling customer service during the coming week！

08/28 2025

Work & Travel USA Program

Mr. Zhong  Location:TX  Here in culturally vibrant Texas, festive energy runs especially high. When my colleague Sebastian told me excitedly during our morning shift, "You can't miss the huge fireworks show at the beach tonight!". His enthusiasm swept me along so completely that I gathered friends immediately to experience this authentic American tradition. Later I asked Sebastian about traditions as sparks faded. He explained that barbecue is an essential ritual for Texas families who grill burgers, steaks and sausages while enjoying cool drinks and watermelon with loved ones. What’s more, communities also host parades and games that blend excitement with family warmth. Earlier that afternoon my bike commute met unexpected gridlock because roads were closed for celebrations which caused the heaviest traffic I've ever seen since arriving. Miss Xie  Location: New Mexico My new bike made this week wonderful! On delivery day our general manager Michele (who's over 50 but outlasts us all) cycled with my roommate and me, urging "Faster!" even when I gasped for breath. But on the first day I rode it to work, there was a huge downpour—I ended up completely soaked, like a drowned rat! Even though I looked a total mess, it was actually a pretty fun experience. Another milestone came when my roommate cooked fried eggs for me—astonishing since she avoids kitchens—so I'm noting this in my journal. And I received my paycheck, capped the week perfectly!     This week, the pool was packed nonstop with summer campers and walk-ins, so the shallow end was as crowded as sardines in a can. During my shift when I was monitoring the kids' zone, I issued three whistle warnings to two boys who were chasing each other near the edge. When they ignored my repeated alerts, I called their parents to intervene and finally put an end to their horseplay.     The critical moment came at 3:15pm when a woman cramped in deep water. After throwing a rescue tube I pulled her to the wall where she kept murmuring "I thought I was fine..." while I massaged her calf, proving even experienced swimmers need monitoring.     Later we adjusted chemicals when pH levels rose before closing. During debrief, my team lead praised my rescue execution but urged: "Next time, don’t hesitate before jumping—even one second could miss the golden window for drowning response." Mr. Wu  Location: VA     Compared to festivals back home, it might not be quite as lively, but it was still a cool experience—everyone was so laid-back. The day after the holiday, our employer sent me to work as a lifeguard on the beach. Later we learned this assignment was designed to immerse us in the holiday vibe, give that there was a party happening there that day.     The party offered free food and drinks, but my highlight was meeting a veteran DJ with 20 years' experience. Using minimal equipment, he filled the crowd with joy. We've become friends as he now mentors me in his craft.

08/27 2025

Work & Travel USA Program

    What’s more, gazing at the ocean and blue sky has become my daily therapy—washing away stress in waves.         One evening cycling back from Walmart, coastal graffiti caught my eye:  With sea breezes and sunset around me, the message resonated deeply. It reminded me  of my favorite quotes:  you makes you stronger."     This past month threw countless challenges at mefrom daily struggles to workplace hurdles. But step by step, I feel the change: sharper problem-solving, steadier independence, a quiet maturity settling in. Sure, the journey hasn’t been smooth, I’m learning to savor every stumble.   I have y spoken English has better! everyone heresmiled and saidMr.     Thi    On north tower duty that morning, I spotted a dad with three kids, his eldest drifting toward restricted zones. After two polite warnings, I hbackNo scolding, just tive! was   I g/AED     As tides dropped at dusk, my senses heightened. Four watch shifts later, sweat-drenched and bone-tired, I realized something: true vigilance reads fear in twitching hands or darting eyes. Safety speaks a universal tongue.     This week flew by—suddenly another week gone! My days fell into a rhythm: shuttling between work, apartment, and gym.       and now I’m ready to work hard!     Our store’s opening week was hectic but rewarding. The biggest hurdle? Pre-opening ventilation had run, yet smells lingered—especially in storage and fitting rooms. We countered with activated charcoal, plants, and scheduled air-outs. Professionals also retested our air to confirm safety.     When customers mentioned the smell, we patiently explained our cleanup steps and offered masks. Teamwork shone as our manager trained us to prioritize health while delivering service.  

07/23 2025

Attending the UWE TNE Partner Success Forum

    Success , and representatives from Dongguan City University, Prof. Binzhong Zhu, Ms. Cuishan Liang and Ms. Zhuoyi Chen were with the precious opportunity to attend the meeting. ’ Prof. Ray Priest International Director, Asia Pacific, University of the West of England, Bristol – Ms. Emma Meads     Prof. Sir. Steven WestthUWE TNE Anniversary.  Prof. Sir. Steven West     During the , representatives from Neusoft Institute Guangdong and Hainan Medical University presented an in-depth sharing of their collaborative strategies in -foreign cooperative education with the University of the West of England.     At the end of the meeting, Tom Linley, Head of Lifelong Learning and Engagement, Asia Pacific Region, University of the West of England, Bristol, introduced the Universitys language and short-term programmes to the delegates, providing multi-modal language-training opportunities for students. Head of Lifelong Learning and Engagement, Asia Pacific Region, University of the West of England, Bristol  “’’”pledged 

07/20 2025