By: Cara Parenti, Career Advancement Program Assistant
What are the long-term benefits of the J-1 Intern/Trainee in the United States on the Career Advancement Program? With over hundreds of interns/trainees within the last five years, the Career Advancement Program has gathered feedback about the J-1 internship/trainee program and life in the United States.
From Career Advancement Program Alumni, here are 7 reasons to invest in a J-1 visa:
- Learn something new.
“There hasn’t been a day in which I can think of that I didn’t learn something new. I plunged into a reality that gave me the best tools to quickly start managing the marketing/visual side of the company, with an incredible level of freedom and trust. This experience has been and will be greatly helpful for my personal and professional growth.” – Paola from Italy, 2013 J-1 Trainee in Troy, Michigan
- Gain independence.
“I became more independent and discovered myself, and I’ve become more open minded and able to adapt to new situations faster than anyone else so far. “ – Seungchan from South Korea, 2011 J-1 Intern in Los Angeles, California
“I have proven to myself that I can really be an independent person. I can live by myself without any help from my friends and family (physically). I could say that I am a survivor. I’m proud of myself because I know that I did a good job and I’m super happy for being part of this.” – Alnor from Philippines, 2011 J-1 Trainee in Moab, Utah
- Boost your self-confidence.
“I have personally gained a great amount of confidence. I’m a completely different person from beginning to end- shy to more independent. I think that after working here, the knowledge and experience gained will really help me to get a job easily in this industry.” – Amanda from Ireland, 2012 J-1 Intern in Clifton, New Jersey
- Meet new people from around the world.
“The CCI Greenheart internship program was a great opportunity for me. I learned a lot of things, and the best thing was that I met many good people. They gave me advice and shared their ideas to help me out.” – Eun Jeong from South Korea, 2011 J-1 Intern in Inglewood, California
- Experience a new culture.
“There are a lot of differences between Japan and America, so it makes me think a lot and gives me a different mind.” – Mayu from Japan, 2011 J-1 Trainee in New York, New York
“I think this is a very good opportunity to know real American culture. I’m very glad to come to New York as an intern. I can learn a lot of things that I didn’t know when I was an international student.” – Saho from Japan, 2011 J-1 Trainee in New York, New York
“I think seeing and exploring the place was my most favorite cultural activity because that way I have seen and heard stories about America. I have been into museums, historical places, famous schools, and other beautiful attractions that the States have.” – Bea from Philippines, 2014 J-1 Intern in Norwalk, Connecticut
- Enhance your career opportunities.
“The vast improvement I feel was my ability to speak and understand English. Upon returning to Romania I plan to use the knowledge, skills, and abilities I learned to secure a professional management position in the hospitality field.” – Tania from Romania, 2011 J-1 Trainee in Bedford Hills, New York
- Develop new skills.
“I’ve received all kinds of skills and concepts; not only in the work field, but also in useful social field. – Xuan from China, 2010 J-1 Intern in Granby, Colorado
“The overall impact of this program has been to develop my skills and confidence. I have undoubtedly developed greatly and enjoyed my time in the USA immeasurably.” – Clare from United Kingdom, 2014 J-1 Trainee in Berkeley, California
Investing in a J-1 visa has changed the lives of many people. Open your eyes to a different way of life by emailing cap@ccigreenheart.org for more information about the J-1 internship/trainee program.
Have you already traveled to the U.S. on a J-1 visa? If so, let us know why you invested in the opportunity! Please email Cara Parenti at cparenti@ccigreenheart.org to share your positive experiences!