Bram

Why did you choose to do a J-1 program in the U.S?

I’ve always had an interest in the United States since I was little. I’m not sure if there is much I can explain about that interest, but seeing all of the different states, people, and cultures, while everyone was speaking the same language really interested me. It is truly a place of opportunity. I wanted to gain more independence and explore a different part of the world. Going across the ocean really proved to be a challenge for me, and I am happy that it was a challenge, as it provided a lot of learning opportunities and helped me grow.

What were the most valuable skills you gained during your J-1 program?

I’ve gained a lot of valuable skills, both professionally and personally. I’ve gotten a lot better at communication and time management as well. My teamwork skills improved because I had to work with people from multiple nationalities and backgrounds. It definitely helped boost my English proficiency. I also gained more cultural awareness and a better understanding of different social and business norms. I am very comfortable saying that I can adapt to unfamiliar environments. As I mentioned in the first question, I’ve also gained a lot of independence by providing for myself in a different country.

How did this experience change you both personally and professionally?

Professionally, I look at businesses very differently now, how they operate and why they operate the way they do. It motivates me to learn more and improve my own skills so that I can climb and grow within a company. It also made me understand that it is really important to do something you enjoy. Personally, I have made so many new friends and created an insane number of memories with them. I’ve created reasons to go back to places just to see those friends again. I realized that if I wouldn’t travel while I was there, then when would I ever travel there? Those thoughts led me to visit places such as Hawaii and Costa Rica, simply because why not? I believe I have become much more understanding of the people and places around me, and these experiences definitely helped me grow in that regard.

Looking back on your time in the U.S., what moment or experience stands out as your favorite?

Working and living in New York can get super overwhelming, as there is always, always something going on. The experience that really stands out to me is my trip through Nevada, Utah, and Arizona to visit the National Parks, and most importantly, the Grand Canyon. Just driving through the states, meeting all of the nice people along the way, and being able to set up our tents at different campsites was an unforgettable experience. After hiking down into and back up the Grand Canyon, I think I had the best mac and cheese ever—even though it was simply a sauce packet mixed with some milk and heated up on a camping stove.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing a J-1 program with Stage-Global?

Just do it, honestly, just go for it. It’s better to regret going than to regret not going. Stage-Global definitely took away the stress of having to figure out everything. That helped me a lot and gave me more time to focus on other things when planning to go to the U.S.