Shermin Teh
Six Flags Great Escape, WAT 2009
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It all started at a university career talk when someone said, “If you want to, you can go work at Disney.” That single line lit a spark in me. I’d always loved theme parks and dreamed of going to the United States, so I signed up for Work & Travel USA right away.
I went alone, despite the H1N1 health scare, and it turned out to be the experience of a lifetime. It was my first taste of living independently — buying groceries at Walmart, decorating my room with friends, doing laundry, and cooking for myself. Sharing a room taught me patience, teamwork, and appreciation for the comfort of home.
At first, traveling and working in a foreign country was intimidating. I had heard all the horror stories, yet over time I grew confident navigating new cities, finding my way around with just a map, and exploring nine states across America. From New York to San Francisco, every stop was a new adventure.
At Six Flags Great Escape, I worked as a ride operator and learned quickly to adapt to the American accent and culture. My job was full of energy and laughter — no two days were ever the same. Operating rides, meeting guests, and working alongside teammates who became close friends made every moment rewarding.
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The best gift from this journey was friendship. My roommate and travel partner, Agnes, became one of my dearest friends. We started as strangers and returned home as classmates and confidantes. Saying goodbye to our American friends was hard, but the memories remain priceless.
This program also clarified my future. I had always been drawn to hospitality, but working in a theme park confirmed it. Bringing joy to people gave me a sense of purpose I had never felt before. I left determined to pursue a career that creates happiness for others — maybe even at Disney one day.
Work & Travel USA was more than a trip; it was a turning point. I learned independence, courage, and joy in simple moments. No words or pictures can truly capture it — it’s something you have to experience for yourself.