Unicorn University opens the door to the world: experience summer in the USA

31. 1. 2025 | PR articles
Unicorn University opens the door to the world

Studying at Unicorn University opens the door to unique experiences beyond academics. For the second year, the school has partnered with Alliance Abroads to offer students the opportunity to experience an irreplaceable summer abroad through its Work & Travel and American Camp Crew programs. And they do it on financially advantageous terms. Thanks to this collaboration, second-year Software Development student Maksym Tkachenko went overseas to spend the summer at an American kids‘ camp. His story is an example of how a foreign experience can not only be unforgettable but also life-changing.

The road to camp: English and skills as the key to success

Participation in the American Camp Crew program, in which Maksym participated, is not affected by any difficult conditions – all you need is sufficient knowledge of English, verified by an interview, and a desire to bring something extra to the camp. „Having some skills or knowledge that will make you interesting as a potential teacher is desirable. For example, you should be able to play football, ride a mountain bike, survive in the forest, practice a craft, etc.,“ Maksym explains the conditions of participation. This variety allows students to contribute something new while also testing how their skills will prove themselves in practice.

Everyday challenges: from camp activities to fighting nature

According to Maksym, life in the camp was not only about having fun but also about overcoming daily challenges. Every day, they woke at 6:30 a.m. and often finished late at night. And the food? It wasn’t prepared in the canteen – they had to go to the storehouse together with the children to get raw ingredients, process them, and cook them on the fire. „After each meal, it was also necessary to carefully pick up all the food scraps and wash the dishes because bears and other smaller animals were living on the other side of the hill that smelled the food and came to get it, which caused panic,“ he recalls.

Unicorn University opens the door to the world

The extremely difficult conditions were due to the choice of camp, as Maksym chose the one with the oldest children. For example, it is ideal for those who want to adventure without modern tools such as the telephone or social networks. „We lived in tents all the time. There was no electricity, no water, and in most places no signal, let alone internet,“ he says. Even more challenging were the multi-day expeditions to national parks. „We were driven several hours from camp, where we were left with tents, a paper map with the route, and a week’s food supply. Each group followed its own route, and we carried all our gear. Washing was only possible in the river if we were lucky. But everyone enjoyed it, and the kids were happy,“ says Maksym, describing his adventures.

Cultural experiences and friendships for life

In addition to improving your English level, discovering the beauty of the overseas USA, and gaining new experiences, one of the program’s benefits is learning about a new culture that can often be different from our own. „Everyone is always rushing around, doing something; even late at night, the streets of New York are full of people. Yet everyone was very kind and helpful. They always helped, explained, and were welcoming,“ Maksym praises the American culture, adding that people here are more focused on the result and speed than the process or side circumstances.

Unicorn University opens the door to the world

However, the American culture was not the only one he encountered during his time in America. He had many colleagues from different parts of the world at the camp. He is in constant contact with some of whom, meeting and deepening newly formed friendships. „I was surprised that I liked all my colleagues. They were extremely knowledgeable, sociable, and kind. I got to know and befriend dozens of people well.“.

The program can change lives

The experience of living in another country is invaluable. „In addition to improving my English, I have developed communication skills and the ability to network and negotiate with people of different ages, genders, and opinions. I would also highlight my ability to make immediate decisions based on the situation and to remain calm and composed at all times,“ Maksym lists the program’s benefits. These skills will come in handy not only in his studies but also in his life and future career.

Inspiration for other students

The American Camp Crew program is ideal for anyone looking for new experiences and challenges. „There is something for everyone. Activity lovers can choose something similar to what I did. Those who want to live in more comfortable conditions can choose younger kids who live in houses, have a dining hall, and simpler activities,“ Maksym says. Through Unicorn University, students have the opportunity to experience the world while gaining valuable experience. Why not take the first step towards a similar adventure now? Unicorn University is your ticket to a summer you’ll never forget.

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