We sat down with Charlotte Guyot, Director of Operations for Europe at International Trainee Network (ITN), to discuss the J-1 Visa process. With eight years of experience managing the J-1 Program and promoting cross-cultural exchanges, Charlotte is a key figure in this field.
Her journey began in the U.S. during her hospitality studies, where she first encountered the J-1 Visa Program. This experience ignited her passion for these programs, recognizing their significant value in our globalized world.
In this interview, we explore the key challenges of the J-1 Visa process and how Charlotte's team helps applicants overcome them. From selecting the right host companies to adapting to a new culture, Charlotte offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring J-1 Interns and Trainees.
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What are the key challenges of the J-1 Visa process, and how do you help applicants overcome them?
Many challenges are associated with participating in a J-1 Intern or Trainee Program in the United States.
These include:
- Being selected by the right hotel or resort for professional training.
- Understanding the program details and official documents required in the program.
- Setting the right goals of the cultural exchange program, and managing the necessary personal investments.
Additionally, participants face challenges related to relocating, adapting to a new culture, and integrating into a new environment.
We assist the applicants in the program from A to Z, providing them with all the necessary documents and preparation guides throughout the entire J-1 Visa Sponsorship process. To address personal challenges, we offer a detailed Arrival Package and Handbook, ensuring participants know what to expect after arriving in the United States.
Regarding their professional training, the DS-7002 (Training Plan), is an excellent guide that outlines what to expect. Additionally, our support team is available to assist with any questions and inquiries participants may have after their arrival in the United States.
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What specific programs do you offer to assist candidates with the process of relocating?
We understand that stepping out of the comfort zone and relocating to a new country can be challenging, and many participants experience culture shock upon arriving in the United States.
Our 24/7 support team in the United States excels at listening to and understanding the various situations participants face after arrival, providing support throughout their American Journey.
ITN & Odyssey provide a comprehensive Arrival Package, containing all the necessary information for candidates post-arrival. This package includes details about the local housing situation, instructions on applying for a Social Security Number (SSN), information on benefits available at their property, and contact details for post-arrival assistance. Additionally, we provide a detailed Handbook to guide participants through various situations they may encounter after arriving in the USA.
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What are the most important cultural and professional differences in the U.S. that participants should be aware of, and how can they prepare for them?
There are many cultural and professional differences between the United States and other countries. As a large nation with very diverse states, each region in the U.S. has its own unique cultural traits.
Adapting to these cultures and customs is a rewarding experience. As J-1 Interns and Trainees step out of their comfort zones and immerse themselves in U.S. culture through local activities, interactions with colleagues, and engagement with the local community.
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How have candidates been successful at creating a home away from home in the U.S.?
J-1 Interns and Trainees adapt quickly to their new environment, integrating into American culture and lifestyle. Our host company partners organize activities to help them integrate and reduce homesickness.
Many participants bring things from home with them, they stay connected with family and friends, celebrate their holidays in the United States, and often invite their peers to celebrate together.
With a support system consisting of host company colleagues, family and friends, fellow J-1 Exchange Visitors, and our team, participants feel welcomed.
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What types of communities or social groups exist for candidates to join in order to create friendships while they are away from home?
Our host company partners often organize social activities for their employees, inviting J-1 Interns and Trainees to join as well. Additionally, we occasionally organize local activities in certain destinations, welcoming all participants living in the area.
These activities aim to integrate J-1 Interns and Trainees into the local communities, allowing them to experience cultural activities, immerse themselves in American culture, have fun, and meet new people.
Moreover, we have a social media group for all our participants, where they can connect with others in the program, make new friends, and organize activities together.
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How does your agency ensure access to healthcare and promote well-being overseas?
Our J-1 Intern and Trainee Programs include medical insurance as part of the program fees. J-1 Interns and Trainees can utilize this insurance in case of emergencies in the United States.
Our support team is also dedicated to assisting, listening to, and understanding participants throughout the program.
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What is the return on investment for people when they participate in J-1 Visa training programs?
Adding international experience from the U.S. hospitality industry to a resume offers applicants a fantastic return on investment. In addition, this cultural exchange program provides them with the experience of a lifetime, in which it is guaranteed they will make memories that they will cherish forever.
This experience significantly enhances their resume, making it more attractive for a global career in the industry. Additionally, all participants receive a stipend during the program, which helps them recoup their initial investments and allows them to explore American culture and engage in cultural activities.
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What top tips do you have for someone moving to the U.S. to train in the luxury hospitality industry?
J-1 Interns and Trainees need to familiarize themselves with American culture. Furthermore, they should:
- Research the host company and the hospitality industry in the United States.
- Network and build relationships with colleagues and leaders from the industry to improve their English and professional skills.
- Stay flexible and adaptable to the new environment, absorbing as much knowledge as possible during their training.
- Explore beyond their training program.
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Can you share success stories of candidates who thrived after overcoming challenges? (Professional)
We have numerous success stories, making it challenging to point out one. Annually, we assist thousands of candidates worldwide in embarking on their American Journey through J-1 Intern and Trainee Programs in the United States.
Among these success stories are cases where candidates have significantly made a positive impact at their host companies in the United States. O where they advanced in their careers after the program, and now occupy important positions in the industry.
As we often emphasize, the candidates have the opportunity to Define Their Journeys, and many have seized the opportunity, accomplishing fantastic accomplishments.
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After completing the program, what are some of the things candidates say they loved the most about the experience? (Personal)
Many of the J-1 Interns and Trainees express a desire to participate in second or even third programs. They are drawn to the hospitality industry in the United States, the opportunity to travel, experience new things not available in their home countries, and forge new friendships.
Whether exploring iconic destinations like NYC, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Miami, or Chicago, or engaging in local activities with fellow J-1 Interns and Trainees, they are truly in the #ITNLife to the fullest!
The overall program experience is highly appealing, with many J-1 Interns & Trainees wanting to return back in the program.