CHI Internship participant Victoriia Gerzhyr, from Ukraine, shares her experience:
This is my first time in the U.S. and Chicago. When I arrived I didn’t feel any discomfort, but there was nostalgia and longing for home and my native language. But it was necessary to start a new life in a new environment. So I studied hard to improve my English. I spoke, listened and read in English only. I bought books that introduced me to the rules of communication and behavior in America.
I also wanted to know and understand: who are they really? These confident and independent Americans and as soon as possible, find the right approach to communicate with them. I realized, they just are the same people as we are. They are very responsive, sincere and always ready to help. Americans are very polite; it’s part of their culture, and I like it. People are ready to help you even if they don’t know you.
To be honest we are lucky that we are interns from different countries and completely different cultures. We have a chance to share our culture. I also like Chicago. I really like the Lake and river here. For me, water symbolizes something special. I like staying here and have met some very good people and am having a good time.
