By Contributing Writer
YORDANA KURHANEVYCH

Businesses in Red River often work with the Department of State to bring college and university students from other countries to work in their businesses during the busy summer season through the Summer Work Travel program. We spoke with Yordana Kurhanevych, who is currently working in Red River at Yesterday’s Diner. She expressed interest in writing for the Questa del Rio News. This is her story.

Just a few months ago, living in the USA was nothing more than a dream for me. But now, that dream has become my reality. My journey began in March when I applied for the “Work and Travel 2024” program. Now, I’m here, and I couldn’t be happier.

But who am I, and how did I come to write this article? I’m Yordana, a 19-year-old journalism student from Ukraine. One day, while serving orders at Yesterday’s Dinner, the restaurant where I work, I had the good fortune of meeting Mikayla Ortega, a journalist from Questa del Rio News. I expressed my interest in journalism, and she said she would love for me to write an article for the newspaper. I was both astonished and thrilled! Just imagine—my first article in an American newspaper! Isn’t that another dream come true? So here I am, sharing my story with you.

To be honest, the first week was difficult for me. I have been living in war-stricken Ukraine. The long road, the adaptation period, the language barrier, and the different time zones between America and Ukraine made it hard to communicate with my family and friends. There was also a lingering guilt for being safe while they endured 20-hour power outages and constant shelling. Even now, that feeling hasn’t gone away. Despite being in the USA, I can’t bring myself to turn off the air raid notifications from Ukraine on my phone. I want to stay informed because a piece of my heart remains there. Not one day goes by without checking the news and I am constantly donating to help our people.

Although I am processing, I am thoroughly enjoying my time in the USA. I have a wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, make friends with people from all over the world, gain new experiences, share my own, and just have a great time. Why not seize this chance?

America has impressed me with its openness and the sincerity of its people. Their smiles and ability to find the positive in any situation are truly inspiring. It’s something worth learning. I am touched by how everyone who learns about my Ukrainian background expresses support, shows interest in the events in Ukraine, and sincerely sympathizes.

In Red River, I feel at home. Having grown up in a small town in western Ukraine with mountains, I immediately found familiar notes here. The climate is pleasant and familiar. I am also incredibly lucky with my employer. Dee Sims and her family have become my real American family. They always surround me with care, support, and a genuine desire to introduce me to all aspects of life in America. Thanks to them, I feel comfortable and cozy here.

I appreciate that interactions with customers here are friendly. We can talk, joke, and sometimes even exchange contact information. In Ukraine, the service industry is more restrained.

Also I feel my English improving. At first, understanding conversations was tough, but over time, I’ve gotten better. Although I still sometimes struggle to express my thoughts clearly. Americans always notice my accent and are curious about my origins. However, they are always understanding and ready to help.
One of the most memorable experiences was celebrating Independence Day. Previously, I had only seen such grand parades in movies, and this year I was lucky enough to be part of one. Unfortunately, Independence Day in Ukraine is not as joyful now. We honor the memory of those who have died in the war, so true celebrations are impossible.

For the first time in three years, I saw fireworks. Initially, the sounds of explosions scared me because they reminded me of the shelling in Kyiv. But eventually, I got used to it, and the fireworks enchanted me and they rang out to celebrate the freedom of this country. The freedom that has given me restful nights, peaceful days and so much joy. That freedom is a beautiful thing and I celebrate it.

In Red River, we have formed our own small community of students from Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Turkey. We spend a lot of time together, cook dishes from our countries, and share thoughts and emotions. The language barrier is no longer an obstacle to our communication.

This American summer has been a time of new discoveries, sincere emotions, and invaluable friendships for me. I will fondly remember this unforgettable journey that has given me so much new and interesting experiences. But this is just the beginning. To be continued…