The views and opinions expressed on the website are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Niagara Foundation, its staff, other authors, members, partners, or sponsors.
By Natasa Jovanovic, Human Resources Intern
July 10, 2015
As an international student from Serbia, I am very happy to share my intercultural experience in the United States with others. For a person who comes from a very small country in Europe, life in America looks like a dream. All the tall buildings, wide roads and highways, and hundreds of people on the streets were completely strange for me and scary at the beginning. However, I got used to it over time. Now, after almost 3 years of being here, I feel grateful for having had this opportunity. I have met so many different people from all around the world; previously, in my English school, and now at my university and here at Niagara Foundation.
In addition to earning my education, I came here with a desire to see different cultures, customs, and faiths. I have been traveling a lot in order to learn about other nations, thus my coming to America has been a good opportunity to enhance my knowledge and experience. In my country, I do not have as many opportunities to come into contact with other nations, and I love being here because I do have that opportunity. It is completely different to live in the country that brings together people from all around the globe. Here I have friends from America and also India, Kenya, China, Turkey, France, which gives me the opportunity to learn about all of these nations and cultures. I have been attending various events such as Chicago’s international music, film, and food festivals. At these, I can eat international cuisines, listen to domestic music, and dance national dances.
Being a Masters student in Human Resource Management at Roosevelt University, I have the chance to work with various people. Thanks to the Niagara Foundation, that offered me an internship in the human resources department, I have improved myself by working in such a friendly, positive and, most importantly, a very diverse environment. Meeting all the employees and interns coming from different cultures and faiths and participating in events organized by Niagara is the best thing that could have ever happened to me. I am very grateful to be here in Chicago and interning for the Niagara Foundation, and I am excited to have an opportunity to share my great impressions and experiences with others.