Choong Wei Ling
Participant, Starbucks, WAT 2008
At 19, I never imagined my first big adventure would take me all the way to Anchorage, Alaska. As someone who rarely stepped out of the house, joining the Work and Travel USA program completely changed my life.
I worked as a Starbucks Barista at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. At first, the job felt repetitive, but over time I began putting my heart into every cup I served. I greeted each customer with a genuine smile and slowly built meaningful connections. Many became regulars and even close friends.
One customer once told me my smile brightened her day after hearing about her mother’s passing. That moment reminded me how small acts of kindness can truly make a difference.
The airport soon became my second home. My colleagues treated me like family, especially Aunt Lydia, whom I fondly called Nanai, meaning “grandma” in Filipino. She always looked out for me, shared food, and reminded me to work hard for a better future.
On my last day, everyone surprised me with a farewell party filled with karaoke, laughter, and heartfelt goodbyes. We cried together, exchanged gifts, and promised to stay in touch. It was one of the most touching nights of my life.
Outside of work, I explored the beauty of Alaska with my adventurous housemates. We hiked the Exit Glacier, cruised among icebergs, and even climbed Flattop Mountain at dawn. Standing at the peak, watching the sun set and moon rise together, was a breathtaking moment that made me realize how alive I truly felt.
Before leaving, local friends took me to Hatcher Pass so I could see snow for the first time. This journey opened my eyes to the world, taught me courage and gratitude, and helped me discover a stronger, more confident version of myself.
If you ever get the chance to go, take it. You might just find, as I did, that the world is bigger and kinder than you ever imagined.