How an Internship Abroad Impacts the Way We View the World Around Us

Mariana, CICD J1 Trainee
Oct 25 2019

To pursue career aspirations while also traveling the world is a unique opportunity! The J-1 visa allows just that and more. J-1 visa programs are a unique opportunity that allows participants from around the world to not only gain meaningful insights and understanding of American business practices, but to experience a whole new culture and… Continue reading »

The Inspiring Impact of an Architecture Internship in the USA

Dhwani with her Internship Team!
Apr 22 2019

“During my stay in the States, I found that it was not only New York but all of America that prioritized a humane approach to architecture.” Traveling to a foreign country is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures and experiences. Having always been amazed by the buildings and city planning in the… Continue reading »

Seasonal Employment Tips for your Work and Travel Program

CICD Work and Travel Program
Apr 09 2019

Congratulations on securing a position in the USA! The J-1 Work & Travel program allows university students to come to the United States to share their culture and ideas through temporary work and travel opportunities for up to 4 months. This is not a work visa. It’s for work and fun! The Center for International… Continue reading »

10 American Foods Everyone Should Try

J-1 Participants at American BBQ
Apr 01 2019

You’ve heard about it. You’ve seen it. You’ve dreamed of eating it. Now that you have set foot in the USA, you are one step closer to sinking your teeth into a true American burger. Without a doubt, the iconic hamburger, paired with some fries, is a beloved symbol of the United States. What else… Continue reading »

Full Placement Vs. Self Placement J-1 Internship Program

CICD Self and Full Placements
Mar 25 2019

After lots of brainstorming, research, and preparation, you are finally ready for your international experience in the United States. It’s been quite the journey already! You’ve carefully reviewed the J-1 visa requirements, picked classes that would boost your credentials, explored the different fields you could train in, and chosen your J-1 visa sponsor. Now it’s… Continue reading »

Learn from a Current CICD Intern in the USA!

J-1 Intern Abigael
Feb 27 2019

Gaining international experience during your academic or professional career can shape your life and work habits in ways that result in a high level of employability in any given field. Why does this matter? During an international experience, such as an internship abroad, participants attain skills and qualities that companies are actively looking for in… Continue reading »

What Makes a Great Hospitality Training Program?

CICD J-1 Participant
Jan 29 2019

J-1 Internships are skills-based training programs and participants qualify based on academic or professional experience in their field of training outside of the USA. Hospitality internships are amazing opportunities for future Hotel Managers, Chefs, and Entrepreneurs! So, what makes a great hospitality internship? 1. Skilled Learning A hospitality program should include skilled learning at top restaurants… Continue reading »

What are Cultural Activities in the USA?

Cultural Activities in the USA
Jan 26 2019

Welcome to the United States! With 48 contiguous states, 2 states located in other parts of the continent, and 1 tropical territory, there are many diverse landscapes to explore in the USA. During your time in the States, you should take advantage of the fast-paced American lifestyle and numerous activities that you can’t do anywhere… Continue reading »

Teach in the USA – CICD’s Global Teaching Program

CICD participant, 2018
Jan 24 2019

CICD sponsors teachers from all over the world on the J-1 visa to the United States. This program allows American students to experience a new culture firsthand and for teachers to learn more about American schools and pedagogy. Through a variety of cultural lessons designed by the foreign teachers, students learn about their home country… Continue reading »

How to Handle Reverse Culture Shock

J-1 Work & Travel Participant, 2016
Dec 21 2018

All travels eventually come to an end. You are probably catching your flight home after the end of your J-1 program feeling bittersweet. Like most independent travelers, you may be thinking about the homemade meal you have been craving, or about finally seeing your beloved pet again. But once you have survived your long 10-hour… Continue reading »

Choosing your J-1 Visa Sponsor

CICD as your Visa Sponsor
Dec 19 2018

Students and professionals increasingly rely on internship opportunities to strengthen their resumes and showcase hands-on, professional experience or international work and cultural experience. International candidates seeking experience in the U.S. face the challenging task of finding both an internship opportunity and a visa to support them. For those who qualify, the J-1 Intern/Trainee visa program… Continue reading »

What is the J-1 Internship and Training Program?

CICD's J-1 Internship and Training Programs
Nov 05 2018

You have pursued your dream career for years. You have applied to universities, spent long hours studying or working entry-level jobs, and now you’re ready for the next step. Going to the United States was always a dream of yours – but how? You could be a candidate for the J-1 Internship and Training Program… Continue reading »