1. J-1 Student Internship Program : Perks & Pitfalls

2. Primary Objectives Enhance the skills and expertise of interns in their academic fields by work-based learning. Improve interns knowledge of American techniques, methodologies and technologies. Increase interns understanding of American culture and society. Enhance American’s knowledge of foreign cultures and skills. Ensure that participants return home to share their experiences.

3. Requirements Training/Internship Placement Plan - T/IPP/DS-7002  Signed by RO/ARO, department & student intern  Required for visa interview English Language Proficiency Verified  Recognized English language test  Signed documentation from an academic institution or English language school  Documented in-person interview, videoconferencing or telephone interview Financial Support  Employment  Personal, family, institutional, etc. Full-time: Minimum of 32 hours per week

4. Requirements, cont’d. Academic  Currently enrolled full-time at post-secondary or certificate granting institution  OR graduated no more than 12 months prior to start of program  In the field of academic study that serves as basis for internship  Position exists primarily to assist interns in achieving their objectives Evaluations  Programs exceeding 6 months – midpoint & concluding  Programs less than 6 months – concluding only Document Retention  Three years following completion of internship  Hard copies or electronic format

5. Program Exclusions Unskilled or casual labor positions Child care or elder care Clinical, patient care, patient contact Contract with a staffing/employment agency More than 20% clerical work Less than three departmental or functional rotations for “Hospitality & Tourism”

6. Duration of Participation 12 months per internship Extension permitted within the 12 months Repeat participation permissible with successful completion of course of study and pursuit of next higher level of academic study

7. Odds & Ends Field of Agriculture Conforms with requirements of Fair Labor Standards Act and Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act Field added on DS-7002 Employer Identification Number (EIN) Verify Worker’s Compensation Insurance Policy, equivalent coverage or evidence of state exemption

8. PERKS   Does not require a separate J-1 designation   Bridges the gap between formal education and practical work experience   Provides substantive cross-cultural experiences   Builds partnerships   Promotes mutual understanding   Develops networks for future exchanges

9. PITFALLS  PAPERWORK!