We are beyond proud that our ASEF Visit Slovenia Junior Fellow, generation 2025, Miranda Kreinbrink-Gačnik, has just completed her research visit in Slovenia. She is a student of Journalism and Advertising at San Diego State University, who did her research visit at The Olympic Committee of Slovenia, under the supervision of Public Relations and Social Media Specialist, also a distinguished Slovenian Olympic athlete, Maja Mihalinec Zidar and Secretary General of the Olympic Committee of Slovenia Uroš Mohorič.

In the following, read her portrait. 

An ASEF Fellow’s Perspective: You can drive ten minutes and feel like you’re in a completely different world

Miranda Kreinbrink-Gačnik is a storyteller, and her life is a vibrant narrative woven from the threads of three distinct places: the majestic mountains of Colorado, the serene coast of California, and the heartfelt heritage of Slovenia. Her ASEF Fellowship has not only shaped her passions but has also left an indelible mark on her soul.

Her love for the natural world is a direct result of this unique upbringing. “The blend of all these different areas truly shaped my passions!” she explains. Growing up in Colorado, she developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors, whether it was hiking through the alpine wilderness or skiing down powdery slopes. This love for the mountains was beautifully complemented by her time in California, where family visits ignited a “big love for the ocean.” As a competitive swimmer, she’s always felt at home in the water, a connection that fueled her passion for environmental protection. This passion deepened in college, especially when she realized that her love for the environment could be combined with her journalism and advertising studies. It was in this blend of her personal and academic interests that she discovered her calling to pursue travel journalism, a field where she can share her love for “new places, environments, and cultures with the world.”

My dream is to pursue travel journalism or advertising to share new places, environments, and cultures with the world. I truly believe there is so much out there that everyone should experience!

The Call of Her Roots

The ASEF Fellowship wasn’t just an opportunity for Miranda; it was a homecoming. Inspired by her cousin Michaela Gačnik, one among the first group of Americans to come to Slovenia for the fellowship back in 2018, and her mother’s enchanting stories, Miranda knew she had to visit Slovenia. The fellowship was the perfect way to combine her professional aspirations with a personal journey of self-discovery. 

I really hoped to discover more about myself and my roots, and I truly believe I did! Being able to work and live in such a wonderful place while connecting with people who share the same values has been an amazing experience.

Besides working at The Olympic Committee of Slovenia, Miranda also engaged in various ASEF activities such as the ASEF Weekend Getaway and the 6th Annual ASEF Fellows’ Picnic.

One of the most profound parts of her experience was reconnecting with her Slovenian family. She describes a magical family reunion where she was greeted with accordion music, traditional outfits like narodna noša, and a feast of homemade food. “When we first arrived, one of my distant cousins was playing the accordion, and they greeted us with carnations,” she recalls. It was a moment that transcended language, filling her with a sense of belonging and warmth. The endless supply of food, including the beloved potica, a dish she used to make with her grandma for Christmas and Easter, made the experience even more meaningful. She remembers the playful ritual of throwing raisins onto the dough, a simple childhood game that now holds a deeper significance. Through these moments, Miranda felt a profound connection to her lineage.

Growing up, I would always make potica with my grandma for Easter and Christmas. It was one of my favorite traditions with her. It was always such a long day—but worth it in the end.

A New Rhythm of Life

Working at the Olympic Committee of Slovenia was a daily adventure. “Every day is different,” she says, whether she was crafting press releases, managing social media strategies, or capturing behind-the-scenes moments at events. She formed a close bond with her mentor, Maja Mihalinec Zidar, who taught her invaluable lessons in PR. Beyond the professional skills, Miranda discovered something even more profound about the Slovenian way of life. She noticed the country’s incredible focus on work-life balance. 

People here aren’t usually in such a hurry compared to Americans. They’ll sit down to order a coffee and stay as long as they want—whereas I’m used to grabbing a coffee and heading right out.

This cultural shift, where Sunday is dedicated to family and many shops are closed, was initially surprising but ultimately liberating. It taught her to slow down and “prioritize myself—not just my work.” This experience, she says, has positively impacted her mental health, a lesson she plans to carry with her forever.

The Next Chapter

Miranda is now preparing for a symbolic moment: getting her fifth tattoo, a representation of her time in Slovenia. She’s chosen the iconic island of Lake Bled, a symbol that will forever connect her to her fellowship, her family, and her heritage. She hopes to inspire others to step out of their comfort zones and travel, perhaps even to join the ASEF program. Her message to prospective applicants is clear and heartfelt.

This program is honestly one of the best things I’ve ever done. It’s a journey that offers personal growth, lifelong friendships, and cultural connection. It’s a chance to visit your homeland, discover your roots, and grow as an individual. Who wouldn’t want that? This experience has the power to change your life and open doors to opportunities you never imagined. I’ll carry it with me forever.

As she looks to the future, Miranda dreams of creating a community for Slovenians in California, bringing the traditions, food, and sense of belonging she discovered back home. For Miranda, this experience was not just a chapter in her life—it was a life-changing journey that will continue to shape her identity and guide her path forward. 

We are immensely proud of Miranda and the academic and personal successes she achieved during the ASEF Visit Slovenia program. We extend our best wishes for her continued professional journey and look forward to the possibility of a future reunion.

We also thank the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad and all ASEF donors for supporting the work of ASEF and our Junior Fellows.

A few of Miranda’s favourite slovenian things

Slovenian Songs:

• Ti moja rožica, Čas, Schatzi, Pojdi z menoj v toplice, Čevapčiči.
  

Dishes:

• Štruklji, idrijski žlikrofi, čevapčiči.

City:

• Kranjska Gora (especially the drive through Vršič Pass).

Word:

• Olimpijski pozdravi!