July 28, 2015
We are excited to welcome Olga Frech, our new Account Executive, to the Aria family. Not only is Olga our newest addition, but she has also traveled the farthest to be here. Born and raised in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Olga came to the U.S. to continue her education and begin her career. We thought we’d use our new blog as an excuse to find out a little more about Olga, why she came, and how she likes the U.S.
So, why did you decide to come to the U.S.?
I studied at The American School in Honduras since preschool, and that is how I was first exposed to American-style teaching. It’s no secret that the U.S. is known for the quality of its higher education; I saw a lot of potential to grow personally and professionally, refine my English skills and get immersed in a valuable intercultural experience.
What is the biggest difference between here and Honduras?
Honduras is a country that is very unstable politically, economically and socially. It is very unfortunate that the high poverty level and inequality challenges that afflict Honduras have made crime and violence a serious issue throughout the country. It’s especially sad to see how many children are affected by this, many are forced to work at a very young age, and others are sought by street gangs.
What do you miss the most from home?
My family: by blood & by choice! Additionally, I’d love to revisit the majestic Mayan ruins of Copán as well as our beautiful turquoise water (always warm!) and white sand beaches. I’m really proud of Honduras’ natural beauty and our tourist attractions (which are all very safe to visit).
What do you like best about living in Boston?
Boston is beautiful! I love the fact that I get to experience the four seasons, which I didn’t in Honduras. Each season has its own charm, and I get to experience new things such as: snow-tubing, skiing, apple-picking, pumpkin-carving, blooming cherry blossoms – things that I had never experienced before. I also appreciate that Boston is a highly cultured city, home to many colleges and universities.
What has been the biggest challenge of living in a new country?
Besides being far away from my family and not being able to attend many special occasions back home, I would say that the biggest challenge has probably been familiarizing myself with new systems – political, legal, economic, immigration, healthcare, etc. Though, I’m lucky to be able to say that I had quite a smooth transition. I didn’t experience culture shock as many of my friends did.
Any insight into how PR differs in the two countries? How about the media? Do they function any differently?
The concept of public relations is very new in Honduras. In fact, there are very few PR agencies. There are several publicity and advertising agencies, but not fully integrated communications agencies like there are here in the U.S. In Honduras, there’s still a lot of hostility displayed towards the media. Many journalists have it tough. There have been many reports of crime violence against journalists and that has led many to self-censorship.
Any advice for anyone moving to a new country to study or begin their career?
First of all, I would say: keep a positive and open mindset. Also, talk to as many people as you can and listen carefully to what they have to share in regards to their life story, background, culture, beliefs and traditions. Oh, and of course, explore and immerse yourself in as many new experiences as you can!
Final question. What would you like people to know about you?
That I’m avidly curious and have an adventurous personality – I LOVE traveling! Usually, I’m the friend that’s always up to go on a trip, go to the movies, watch a show on Broadway, hang out at a park, go to a concert or music festival, eat at a new restaurant, go to a conference – you name it. Oh, I also consider myself kind of an adrenaline junkie. Last year I went cliff jumping and skydiving. I haven’t experienced anything like that yet this year, so I’ll have to think of something soon!
