Job fairs are part of Greenheart Exchange’s efforts to help our Host Organizations interview and hire the seasonal staff for the coming summer. With a variety of job fairs, Greenheart meets the needs of businesses through International Job Fairs, Virtual Job Fairs, and Greenheart World’s Fair interview sessions in Chicago. With International Job Fairs, Greenheart staff and host organizations travel to do in-person interviews with participants who are pre-screened for their English language proficiency, prepared for job they are interviewing for, and have had an overview of the Summer Work Travel (SWT) Program, including deadlines and regulations. International applicants enjoy meeting representatives of their potential host organizations, discussing their previous experiences in relation to job they are interested in, and other related details.
Recently, Greenheart’s Ivana Batkovic, Adult Programs Manager, accompanied some of our host organizations to the Dominican Republic for in-person interview sessions. Here is her report from the DR, and some insights on what happens at an International Job Fair:
I am thrilled to share the remarkable success of Greenheart Exchange at the recent job fair hosted by the Tourism and Cultural Exchange Office (OFIT) in Santo Domingo. As a sponsor of the “Work and Travel” summer program, Greenheart played a pivotal role in providing over 600 Dominican university students with an unparalleled opportunity for cultural exchange and professional development. The initiative offers eligible Dominican students the chance to work in the United States during the summer, not only gaining valuable work experience but also fostering cultural integration and language skills improvement.
The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of various host organizations exclusively present for the occasion, with Greenheart staff leading the charge. Our team, along with hosts, traveled to Santo Domingo and received a warm welcome, immersing ourselves in the best of Dominican hospitality and cuisine. The festivities kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony featuring music, dancing, and even a confetti machine, setting the tone for an exciting and engaging job fair.
The entire event was a testament to OFIT’s meticulous organization, with no delays and a seamless flow of activities. Greenheart staff and hosts were deeply impressed by the participants’ skills, talent, and charisma. This year’s program spans across various U.S. states, including Maryland, Maine, Pennsylvania, California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Arizona, Alaska, Arkansas, Illinois, Wisconsin, Virginia, Connecticut, and Colorado, showcasing the high regard in which Greenheart Participants are held by hiring hosts. The trip left an indelible mark on everyone involved, creating lasting memories of a truly unique and unrepeatable experience.
In conclusion, Greenheart’s commitment to the success of the Work and Travel program was evident throughout the event. Our participation not only showcased the incredible opportunities provided to Dominican youth but also reinforced our dedication to fostering cross-cultural understanding and professional growth.
Thanks, Ivana, for sharing and special thanks to our Host Organizations, Sending Agencies, and all the people who came out to the Job Fair in the DR.
If you are a business who would like to host international seasonal staff for a cultural exchange, please visit HirewithGreenheart.org to learn more.
To learn more about Greenheart’s Work and Travel program visit GreenheartExchange.org.