Faith Nyamakwere
Zimbabwe → Nashville, TN
“Throw yourself outside of your comfort zone...I guarantee you that something in your mind will have changed.”
“During my Summer Work Travel program, I had the privilege to be at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Centre.
"I got to see and explore amazing places and attractions in Nashville, Tennessee such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Tennessee State Museum, and the Grand Ole Opry. I got to experience snow for the very first time in my life! My friends and I even had the opportunity to build a snowman. In addition to Nashville, I also visited Chicago and New York City.
“Although initially very apprehensive, since this was my first time crossing oceans to another continent and living with new people, I was surprised at how friendly everyone was. I met other exchange visitors who, like me, were willing to explore the world as well as have fun. This discovery filled me with joy and everlasting excitement.
“My advice to other J-1s is to travel as much as possible when given the opportunity. Throw yourself out of your comfort zone. There is so much to explore out there – find out how other people live and you will realize that the world is a much bigger place than the town you live in. When you come back, your home may still be the same, and yes, you may go back to the same old university, but I guarantee you that something in your mind will have changed.”
What she's up to now:
Pursuing a Ph.D. in Animal Science at the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa.