Exchange Visitor Story: Rattana Sakdikul

From the first day until now my journey in the USA is so amazing and full of great memories. I'll never ever forget this good time. Thank you myself for being brave and decided to come here without any friends and don't know anyone. To be honest I was so afraid and worried about everything because everything here in Alaska is new for me no matter language, weather, culture and people. My English language wasn't strong, especially my listening skills. I was afraid that I couldn't communicate with anyone and the weather in Alaska was so cold and I come from Thailand, my country we're not cold like this. However I can adjust myself and get through everything. My boss and my colleagues they're so awesome, very friendly and helpful. They try to adjust themselves to me and make me feel comfortable. I know some Thai people here they're very kind to me. They said I'm far away from home. They don't want me to feel homesick and lonely so they take care of me like I'm a part of their family. In summer at my hotel we had J1 Work and Travel from Thailand they're so funny and friendly, we never knew each other before but we're so close like siblings and take care of each other. I didn't think everyone was going to be very nice to me like this. I'm so sad I have to leave from here and go back home. I don't know when I will be back again but this is gonna be my best memories ever.
I'm so glad to join this program. I gain work experience and life experience from here and my English skills are better than before. I met a lot of good friends, no matter Thai people or foreign people. I feel like I'm so lucky to come here and meet them. Many people asked me the same question: why did I come here to Alaska? I don't know why I just want to explore a different place from Thailand. Alaska isn't a bad choice. It's so beautiful and attractive. - Rattana Sakdikul / Front Desk Intern / Fairbanks, Alaska