The idea of this new adventure (a summer work program) came to me when I started my internship at NGB. It was early October, and the students had recently returned from their summer programs in America. Coming into the office, they talked about their stay; they were so excited and told us about their experiences, their trips and the things that had happened over the summer. They all wanted to go back again and spend another amazing summer.
For several weeks I listened to their stories and began to consider the idea. I had wanted to do it before, but maybe I didn't have enough courage to step out of my comfort zone. With everything happening around me, like moving into a new place, meeting and working with new colleagues at university, I decided that maybe it was time to do something else I had never done before. I knew I didn't want to travel alone, even though many students do and still have a great summer. The first person I thought of was my roommate. She studies tourism and is quite an adventurous person, and in fact the decision to go together took us no more than a minute. We had to discuss it with our parents and loved ones, and then it was time to sign up for the program. With a small set of documents and a signed contract, the next step was to choose a job position.
The consultants at NGB answered every single one of my questions, and as you can imagine, there were many. They helped us choose a suitable position and location, just as they helped all the students who still didn't know exactly what they wanted to do during their stay.
The next step was the interview with the employer. Ours took place over the phone, but there are other options too, such as a CV or a Skype interview, and some employers even come and meet the students in person. We were approved by the employer, who was very kind and answered our questions.
Every step of the application process was interesting, but perhaps the most exciting was our visa interview. During my work at the company I had gained confidence and was almost sure I would do well. To be completely honest, the nerves came on the day of the interview, which is normal – everyone gets nervous when something important is coming up.
And so my turn came to be interviewed. The woman asking me the questions was very kind and welcoming. And after a short conversation, despite all the emotions, she wished me a wonderful summer.
Now all that's left is the departure itself – the last and, of course, most important step. As with all students, the excitement is huge, not only because I'll have the opportunity to get to know a completely different culture, but also because it's a way to grow, discover yourself and build your character.
I think this is an opportunity not to be missed, and everyone who has the chance should experience the Work and Travel adventure!