PAX - Program of Academic Exchange is a program of PAX Laurasian Exchange and is designated by the U.S. Department of State as a J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program sponsor.

Daniela got talent.

My name is Daniela, and I am an exchange student from Spain, living in New Jersey.

I started playing the guitar when I was seven, and I took classes for eight years. My family loves music, and Spain has a huge musical culture, especially regarding the classical guitar. My inspiration has always been Paco de Lucía. From the moment I heard "Entre dos Aguas," he has been my favorite. He was such an incredible Spanish guitar player and his music makes me feel at home, always bringing joyful and sweet memories.

Playing the guitar is not only my hobby, it is something I’m passionate about, something that has helped me through hard times. It has kept me company through the Covid pandemic. The guitar has always been like a friend, a place to go whenever I feel upset, my calm and source of peace to clear my mind and my refuge. That’s why I couldn’t be happier that my host family is full of music lovers and guitar players too. I even got into the jazz band at my American high school.

Going to the U.S. has been my dream since I was a kid, watching American movies, and now I’m speechless realizing how lucky and happy I am to be here. Best of all is this beautiful family and community helping me and sharing my passion, the guitar.

Even though the filming of this video was hard (biking to a remote place, waiting until the planes from the close local airport were gone, trying to keep ourselves warm during a cold November evening in New Jersey, and playing the guitar with fingers that were freezing cold) it was worth it. It is another fun experience to remember with the company of my host dad, Eric. I am glad to get to play for the PAX’s Got Talent! contest, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

—Daniela (Spain), hosted by the Feigenbaum family (NJ)