From Alaska to Mexico

Hello everyone! My name is Ilija Milićević, and I am a former participant in the Work and Travel program. I have always wanted to travel, but at the same time, fear held me back from taking the leap and actually making it happen. Work and Travel was the turning point that helped me overcome that fear and gave me the opportunity to enjoy both working and traveling while seeing so much of the world – from Alaska to Mexico.

Here is my incredible Work and Travel experience.

When I started university, I first heard about the W&T program, and even then, at the beginning of my studies, I knew deep down that I wanted to participate. It was only a matter of time. Year after year, I postponed applying because of university obligations, the COVID-19 pandemic, and countless other reasons that were, in reality, simply products of fear.

One thing I was certain about was that I wanted to participate in the program before my student life came to an end. After seeing photos and listening to stories from students who had already participated, I finally made the decision and applied for the first time during my fourth year of university.I wish I had gone much earlier, and you’ll soon understand why.The decision was made: I was going to America.

I was excited, happy, and terrified all at the same time. Questions started running through my mind: “What now?” “Will I be able to do it?” “What will it be like being so far away from my family and loved ones?”

I went through all of this together with a friend whom I had invited to join me on the program. It didn’t take him long to say yes. We went to the US JIM office, and that is where our American adventure began.We registered for the program, and soon various job offers started coming in. I really have to praise the agency for their kindness, patience, availability, excellent organization, preparation, and the information they provided to students before their departure for the United States.(This is not a paid advertisement – they really are the best!