Laura Choo Rui Min
Grand Canyon North Rim, WAT 2011
(Special Award)
It began with an email from Speedwing about a last-call application for the Work and Travel program. My friends and I had just been talking about summer plans, and that email changed everything. Within weeks, we were set to go.
I was assigned to the Grand Canyon North Rim as a housekeeper. As a city girl, I struggled to imagine life without malls or bright lights. My mother texted every day to check on me. Slowly, nature grew on me. The vast canyon, the clear air, and the silence became comforting.
Because of my F&B experience, I was moved to the restaurant as a busser. I helped prepare the dining room for the season, serving hundreds of guests each night. The pace was fast, but the view made every moment worth it.
Guests often left kind notes or tipped me, and my managers encouraged me to take on more responsibilities. Soon, I became a hostess and worked in the kitchen, gift shop, and pantry. Every new role taught me something about teamwork and patience.
The American culture of openness left a strong impression on me. People were quick to encourage and express gratitude. It reminded me that small words can have a big impact.
Leaving the canyon was difficult. I wrote to my mother that I would miss the sound of the wind, the crunch of acorns under my shoes, and the stars at night. The experience taught me to slow down and appreciate the world beyond the city.
The Grand Canyon changed how I see life. It gave me independence, confidence, and gratitude for simple beauty.