-Week 1 Report-

Student Zhong  Location: TX

Finding Courage Through Independence: Lost in a Foreign Airport

    My first long-haul flight, especially the United Airlines leg, was incredibly tiring. But the real challenge began after landing at Houston airport – I mistakenly placed my luggage on the wrong security conveyor belt and lost sight of it in an instant.

 

    Traveling alone and frantic with worry, I had to solve it myself. Initially, nervousness made me incoherent when explaining to staff, and they didn't fully understand. But after asking several people, I gradually calmed down and spoke more clearly. What touched me most was a white lady at the airport. She patiently listened to my plight, immediately contacted relevant departments to help search, and gently reassured me: "We will definitely find your suitcase here." When news about the suitcase finally came, I left my contact details. Only when I retrieved it with my own hands did I truly feel my own courage – despite feeling frustrated and confused, I never gave up on helping myself.

    This experience quietly transformed me. The fact that I could solve such a problem alone in an unfamiliar country, where I knew no one, was something I never dared imagine before. Previously, in such situations, I would have cried and sought help from companions. Yet this time, a newfound resolve emerged from somewhere, driving me to retrieve my luggage no matter what. I believe this has prepared me well for the growth in independence over the next three months.

    What surprised me even more was the driver who came to pick me up. He was an African American man, and I was a bit apprehensive at the sight of him. But he kept messaging me at the airport, reassuring me "the luggage will definitely be found," and waited patiently for over two hours. When I got in the car and kept apologizing, he just smiled and said, "You solved the problem, that's great!" He hummed tunes along the way, clearly in high spirits. Learning I hadn't had dinner, he specifically took me to experience a quintessential American drive-thru McDonald's – ordering and getting food without leaving the car. Generously, he ordered me a large Coke, a Double Big Mac, a regular hamburger, and a large fries – just like on TV.

    The hour-long drive from the airport to my accommodation offered beautiful scenery: wide highways, endless blue sky, and vast white clouds. He also shared practical tips: it doesn't get dark here until almost 9 pm in summer, so wear sunglasses and sunscreen when going out. He encouraged me, saying: "These three months will definitely be an unforgettable experience; you will gain so much. I often tell my passengers and my own kids to go out and see more of the world."

    Upon arriving at the dorm, a woman tenant on the first floor (a white doctor!) showed me to my room and carefully explained how to use the facilities. After letting my family know I was safe, I unpacked and then I took a shower and slept soundly. That day felt like opening a new map of my life, filled with anticipation for the new experiences about to unfold.

Student Huang  Location: WI

     On the first day, I headed straight for the train station after arriving at Chicago airport. I met many fellow travelers on the train. Two Chinese girls also came to the apartment with me, and we took the opportunity before check-in to explore the nearby area.

    On the second and third days, we underwent intensive training at the swimming pool, where I met many new Thai friends. They were all very friendly and would often chat and watch TV with other students during downtime.

    The instructors taught us a lot about swim assistance, how to rescue people in the water, and how to save ourselves. We also learned many first aid techniques. Although this period was quite exhausting, I gained a wealth of knowledge.

    The community staff provided us with a kitchen for cooking, and we could also enjoy free coffee in the office every day.

Student WU Location: Florida

Training Days

    I've been in the US for a while now and have settled into life here. This isn't my first job; I have plenty of work experience. But this time, working alone abroad, I was even more excited.

    Only two of us passed the two-day training, and I was one of them. The others started a third day of training. I thought I could rest on day three, but no. Early that morning, I received word that I had to relocate, and upon arriving at the new place, I started working immediately. At the new post, I had to learn everything humbly and ask questions. My Colombian colleagues were very kind and enthusiastically taught me, so by the end of my first day, I had already grasped my tasks and responsibilities.

    The following days were all about work, work, and more work. I got used to it within a few days and resumed my daily fitness routine. I adapted to the new environment very quickly; the atmosphere with my roommates and colleagues is excellent. The only downside is that the work hours are a bit short, but I've communicated this with my employer, hoping for smoother sailing ahead.

Application & Inquiries

Work & Travel USA Program

Work & Travel USA Program Now in Full Swing!

Program Advisor丨 Mr. Zhai

Contact Number丨 +86 185 8861 5998

Inquiry Location丨 G102, School of International Education (as shown below)

Translator丨 Huang Shuyun