In July, Work and Travel participant Ana from Spain was selected as the winner of a Greenheart Photo contest. Her photos and initial experiences in New York City were detailed in a blog post at the time. We caught up with Ana more recently to check in on how this experience has shaped her life.
What have you been up to since returning to Spain?
Since I returned to Spain a few weeks ago, I’ve been mainly focused on catching up with university. I’ve also gone back to my Taekwondo training and my usual gym routine. Besides that, I’ve been reconnecting with my hobbies and personal projects. Overall, I’ve been trying to get back into my normal rhythm and life here in Spain.
At this point, what is one memory about your American experience that stands out above the rest?
What stands out the most from my American experience is the people I met. I went there completely alone, without knowing anyone, and yet I ended up forming strong connections with people I never expected. Some of them became like family to me. Also, I had so many unforgettable experiences — I saw the Michael Jackson musical, went to my first concert, explored New York City, and visited Boston and Washington, D.C. I loved the freedom I had, but most of all, it’s the friendships I made that mean the most.
How did this program affect your view of the United States and the American people?
I’ve always liked the United States and its culture, but living there for a few months gave me a new perspective. I now see it as a country full of opportunities — a place that can really inspire you if you’re open to working hard. As for the people, I always felt welcomed. Americans were kind, friendly, and trusting from the very beginning. They made me feel at home, and I truly have a very positive impression of them.
What are you studying and what are your future career plans?
I’m currently in my second year of Psychology. As of now, I’m still exploring different paths and figuring out what I want to do in the future. Psychology has many branches, and I’m open to various possibilities. I’m not set on anything specific yet, but I’m also open to moving abroad or starting different kinds of projects — I like to keep an open mind about where life might take me.
Any advice to others who are considering the Summer Work Travel program?
To anyone thinking about doing the Summer Work Travel program — go for it! I truly encourage you to do it. It will help you grow so much as a person. You’ll be challenged in ways that require maturity, responsibility, and discipline. You’ll also meet amazing people from all over the world and improve your English while earning money and traveling. Even the job itself becomes a fun and valuable part of the experience because you’ll make friends there too. So don’t let the idea of working scare you — it’s part of what makes the experience so special.
At first, it might feel intimidating or uncertain, but if you take that leap, I promise the reward is worth it. You’ll come back with unforgettable memories, friendships, and life lessons. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience — if you get the chance, don’t hesitate!
To read Ana’s blog post about her on-program experience, click here.
If you are a business who would like to host international seasonal staff for a cultural exchange, please visit HirewithGreenheart.org to learn more.
To learn more about Greenheart’s Work and Travel program visit GreenheartExchange.org.