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elesha-phillip-grenada

Elesha Phillip – Grenada

I heard about the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program during my time of study at the T.A. Marryshow Community College for the 2017/2018 period in Grenada when I made the decision to say yes to such a great opportunity. Placement for me was in the Food and Beverage department at the Horseshoe Bay Resort in Texas. On embarking on my journey I was so scared and shaky but that quickly went away as I stepped into the workplace. The staff was very welcoming and excited to show me everything that I needed to learn and beyond. At approximately 3 months into the program, different opportunities began opening for me. I was given the opportunity to gain experience in bartending and being a hostess at the host company.

In addition, it was a great pleasure to explore the different cultures of the many people I have met from all over the world from places like Albania, South Africa, the Philippines, and Jamaica.

Thanks to Jobseekers International for giving me the opportunity to travel, to gain knowledge and experience within the field of the Hospitality Industry.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Latoya Moore - Jamaica

Latoya Moore – Jamaica

This was my first time participating in the Jobseekers International J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program and I’m happy to say I have no regrets. I started the program on March 10th, 2017 at the Bedford Golf and Tennis Club in Bedford, New York. I worked as a server and sometimes a bartender and it has been a great experience thus far. I got to meet a lot of new people and learn about their culture. I participated in their Easter party, 4th of July and Labour day party. The members along with the manager, Mr. Phillip DuBon, and the kitchen staff made the environment very comfortable to work in.

This is an experience I’ll never forget. Thank you Ms. Wilson and thank you Jobseekers International Placement Agency.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Kimberley Charles – Grenada

I am forever grateful to Jobseekers International for this opportunity to partake in the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program. I have enhanced my skills, gained knowledge and interacted with individuals from different countries. So far in my program, I have been able to do menu analysis, and monthly inventory, enhance my knife skills and manage the daily breakfast line and banquet events. I have had the opportunity to visit New York mainly Brooklyn and Manhattan. I have enjoyed exploring Downtown Brooklyn and participating in the annual West Indian Day Parade. I will always be grateful to Jobseekers International for allowing me this opportunity!

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Kodelia Joseph – Grenada

I’ve been participating in the JobSeekers International Placement Agency J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program for 2 years now. I’ve completed that program and I’m now participating in the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program. It’s an amazing experience where you get to travel, gain new experiences and skills based on the career you’re trying to achieve. I’m now a  Chef at Marriott Sawgrass Resort and my goal is to work at each station in the culinary department. Throughout this program, I’ve also met great people along the way from different countries who are like my family now.

For anyone who wants a great start to their career, I strongly recommend this program. It’s a major opportunity that you don’t want to miss out on.

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Cherissa McDonald – Grenada

Expressing my deepest and complete satisfaction with the opportunity granted to me through Jobseekers International to participate in this J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program. This training has thus far given me the opportunity to develop my skills, grow and learn, and be able to gain individuality by applying myself. Based on my time completed, I have been able to learn three (3) of the four (4) kitchen stations, prepare and serve banqueting events by myself and also prepare the restaurant’s daily special, managing to set a kitchen record of 23 specials priced at $48 individually in one night.

I was also able to improve my communication skills and have been working well with each associate at the resort as well as the guests at buffet breakfasts and dinners. In addition, I have been able to make my way around the state to explore and enjoy scenic features as well as events and festivals of Kentucky including hiking to the Natural Bridge, Mammoth Caves and Cumberland Falls.

Again, I extend deep gratitude and appreciation for this opportunity as I continue with the rest of the program.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Janeene Cumberbatch – Barbados

Participating in the J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Through this program, I was not only able to meet and interact with students my age from different cultures but I was able to build lifelong friendships as well. This program also allowed me to live and work in one of the most beautiful places in Missouri. Furthermore, my bosses and co-workers were very friendly and even went out of their way to make everyone feel welcome.

Having done the program I learned a lot about life and surviving on my own which helped me a lot when I travelled to New York. I definitely will be going on the J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program again.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

BUSINESS CULTURE

Supervisors

The American workplace may seem much less hierarchical than a typical style work environment. You may be permitted to call your boss by his or her first name (do not do this, of course, unless you see your coworkers doing the same).

Supervisors may share what seems to be personal information that is normally only shared with close friends. Socializing on the job is casual and will include all levels of the hierarchy. Do not let this fool you. Your boss is still your boss, and although relations may seem informal, this informality or friendliness is only an American form of politeness. Watch and listen to your boss and co-workers to learn how formal or informal it is. Treat your boss with respect by being punctual and cooperative, not by formal speech or flattery.

Team Work

American society reflects a historical dependence on group support, although many Americans think of themselves as individualists. The fact that a tremendous amount of vocabulary from team sports is used in the workplace is a reflection of this. Make sure to help co-workers if they request it and do not be afraid to request help if you need it.

Your employer may ask you to take on tasks not in your job description in order to get a job done. The goal is: to get the job done. Members of a workgroup, including the boss, may be very flexible about what work they do in order to achieve that goal.

Time

Time is extremely important in American society. Being on time (punctual) is always important. This usually means showing up a little early (5 or 10 minutes), especially at interviews and meetings. Employees who consistently arrive at the office five minutes late may be seen as latecomers who do not take their work seriously.

During business conversations, personal subjects or information are generally not brought up. Getting the work done and getting to the point is generally more important. You will have plenty of time to get to know colleagues after work, during lunch, and during breaks.

Conflict

It is an acceptable practice in the U.S. to discuss problems you are having at work with your supervisor. Approach him/her in a calm and polite manner and explain your concerns. If you feel the objectives of your internship/training are not being met, refer to your Internship Agreement Form. Discuss your training objectives with your employer and point out which of the specific duties indicated on the form you feel you are not performing.

Express your desire to learn more and do more, and fulfil your tertiary institution’s requirements. If you continue to have problems, please contact us or the sponsor. Sometimes, Americans are very open about the actions of employees that are seen as unsatisfactory. Some employers may even express anger. Do not be afraid to politely present your point of view or to admit a mistake. This is usually a chance to make things better, not a prelude to being fired.

Lay-Offs and Firing Practices

If a company has financial difficulties, it is possible that the company will eliminate your position. Most people get two weeks’ notice before they have to leave, but this is not required by law (although it can be by a union contract). If this happens, you should contact us immediately for advice. If you are fired, it is because the company is unhappy with you. It is rare that interns are fired for poor technical skills.

Please understand that if you are dismissed due to poor technical skills or if the job is too demanding, we will be more than happy to try finding you an alternative placement.

Benefits

As an intern/trainee, your employer is not required to provide you with the same benefits that regular employees receive. These include vacations, sick leave, medical insurance, etc. However, you are already covered by the medical insurance offered by the program.

Getting Promoted

Some interns/trainees work long enough to receive advancement in their jobs. Being dependable, loyal, and punctual are necessary qualities for getting ahead. Both working well without supervision and being honest about mistakes are also important. If you have a good idea about a new project, do not be afraid to share it with your boss. Let your employer know you are interested in the advancement, but only if you think you deserve it and notice that others in similar situations are being promoted.

Salary

Your salary is called wages or pay. There are no minimum or maximum restrictions on how much interns/trainees can earn. You should be receiving the remuneration indicated on your offer letter and training plan. If the employer decides to provide more than initially agreed upon, this is not an issue. However, if you are receiving less than agreed on the Training Agreement form and a conflict has developed between yourself and the employer, contact us for advice.

You will receive your salary either once a week, every two weeks, or every month. You will always receive less than your gross salary (what you agreed upon). Money will be subtracted from your gross salary for taxes. These subtractions are called deductions. The money you receive after the deductions is your net salary. Your employer should give you a salary statement or pay slip with your paycheck that explains which taxes are being taken out of your paycheck.

Remember, as an exchange visitor, you should not have social security taxes deducted from your salary. Refer to the Tax Web Page for detailed instructions. Depending on your agreement with your employer, you might also have a uniform, housing, or other costs deducted from your pay.

Housing

As in other countries, rents depend on states and cities. It will certainly be cheaper in small towns than in New York, which is well known to be one of the worse places to find an affordable apartment! Most students and young professionals going to the United States for a few months prefer to share an apartment instead of living on their own. There are three main advantages to choosing to have roommates:

  • It is a lot cheaper to share an apartment than to have one on your own.
  • Most shared apartments are already furnished, so you won’t have to buy furniture for only 6, 12 or 18 months.
  • It will help you to meet new people and to make friends!

Finance

When arriving in the United States, you should open a bank account as soon as possible. Services and fees vary from bank to bank. Check with several different banks to find the one that best suits your needs. When you first go to the bank, bring various forms of identification, including your passport and social security number. If you have any credit cards and proof of where you are living, bring them as well. What type of account do you want to open? Ask about your options.

Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs)

Most bank accounts provide bank cards that can be used at 24-hour automated tellers machines (ATMs). At least two banking networks, the Cirrus network and the Plus network offer services at machines in many locations across the U.S. When staying in major cities, a bank card may be just as useful as a traveller’s checks or credit cards. Check with your local financial institution before leaving home to verify that you are able to use your bank card from home at some of these machines.

To locate a local cash machine, contact the Cirrus Cash Machine Locator at 1-800-424-7787, or the Plus ATM Locator Service at 1-800-843-7587. Call the telephone number on your card to locate local machines that will accept your card. When opening a bank account, ask about an ATM card and find out if your bank belongs to one of the major networks. Banks may charge a fee of between $1.50-3.00 per withdrawal for using an ATM that belongs to another bank.

Transport

Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is illegal on federal roads in the United States and is extremely dangerous. Do not, under any circumstances, accept a ride from a stranger.

By bus
Buses have always been an inexpensive and popular way to travel around the U.S. The major bus companies can connect to local bus transportation, allowing you to reach even the most remote towns and you never know whom you might meet on a bus! One of the best bargains in bus travel is to buy an International Ameripass in a Greyhound Bus. This can be purchased in the gateway cities of New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and San Francisco and allows you unlimited travel anywhere in the U.S. for a specified period of time. Be careful about going to a bus stop late at night if it is in an isolated area.

By metro
Most big cities in the USA such as New York and Los Angeles have metro (subway). Very convenient, however, this transport can be dangerous at night-time, so be careful!

By train
The train is another common way of travelling in the United States. Amtrak, the national railroad, offer a service called the USA Rail Pass which is valid for either 15 or 30 days at peak and off-peak rates. This pass is only available to foreign visitors to the U.S. To buy Amtrak tickets or passes, contact Amtrak at 1 800 872-7245.

By car
For many Americans, travelling by car is the most common way of transportation. Most cities do not have a well-developed public transportation system and access to a car may be a necessity. In order to drive legally in the United States, you should have both a driver’s license from your home country as well as an international driving license. Some states may require only that you carry the license from your home country, although it is highly advisable that you carry an international permit. These can be obtained from a national Automobile Association in your country.

An international driving license is more easily recognizable in the U.S. than one from your home country. The coded information on foreign licenses may be incomprehensible to U.S. law enforcement officials. Furthermore, an international driving permit is required for renting a car or being hired to drive a car around the U.S. You must have your driver’s license in your possession when driving.

For varied reasons, interns may need to obtain a driving license from the state they will be working/driving in. To apply, contact the local office of your State Department of Motor Vehicles. This does involve a fee, which will vary from state to state, but usually ranges from $20-$100.

Driving rules
Police and State Highway Patrol officers enforce driving laws to ensure safety on the streets and highways. Be aware of the following rules:

  • Speed Limit: The speed limit in cities, town centres, and congested areas are usually 25 miles per hour. There are usually signs indicating the speed limit. The maximum speed limit on the highway is usually 55 to 65 miles per hour, depending on the state. Laws against speeding are strictly enforced in order to prevent reckless driving, accidents, and loss of life.
  • Accidents: Most accidents, especially those involving personal injury or property damage, must be reported to the nearest police station within 24-48 hours and to the State Department of Motor Vehicles within 14-30 days.
  • Traffic Lights: Unless otherwise indicated, state laws permit motorists to turn right on a red light after stopping to check for traffic.
  • Tickets/Infractions of the Law: You are responsible for paying all tickets you receive and answering all charges incurred.

Security

The role of the following safety tips is to encourage you to use common sense to ensure that your stay in the U.S. is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Here are some general guidelines you should consider when visiting any city:

  • Never leave your luggage unattended at an airport, train, or bus station. You are giving thieves an open invitation to walk away with your belongings.
  • Pickpockets target people who expose large amounts of cash in crowded places or who stand in lines looking preoccupied. Be aware of those around you.
  • Only use licensed taxicabs such as Yellow Cabs.
  • Carry your purse firmly and never put your wallet in your back pant pocket so as not to make yourself an easy target for pickpockets and thieves.
  • Avoid carrying around large amounts of cash and/or important documents unless it is absolutely necessary.
  • Avoid going to ATMs at night, especially if you are alone.
  • Be alert, cautious, and confident, and avoid taking unnecessary risks. This way you can concentrate on discovering a new city and enjoying your stay rather than worrying about your safety!

Drugs
Illegal possession of controlled substances (drugs) in the United States is subject to prosecution by law. The penalties for drug possession vary from state to state and region to region. Any type of illegal drug use is seriously frowned upon, as the U.S. is attempting to control the traffic of illegal substances. You are subject to fines and possible time in jail for any drug possession or association with people who have drugs themselves.

Alcohol
Please be aware of U.S. drinking laws, which state that you must be 21 years old and older to drink legally. In many regions, you will be asked to produce picture identification to prove you are of legal drinking age. Many bars will only accept a driver’s license or identification card from the Department of Motor Vehicles that state your age. The identification card does not authorize you to drive. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles for information about obtaining an identification card.

In addition, drinking in public (i.e., outside a restaurant, bar, or residence) is prohibited in many places, especially in beach resort towns. You will be subject to fines if you are found guilty.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI): A national campaign to raise awareness of drunk driving and decrease alcohol-related traffic accidents has swept the U.S. Because of this, enforcement of the DWI/DUI law has become very strict. To keep yourself and others safe, do not drink and drive. Americans generally appoint a designated driver when going out with a group of friends. This person agrees to refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages.

Smoking
As part of an intense anti-smoking campaign in the United States, strict measures provide a smoke-free environment. There are several national and local regulations regarding smoking in public places. Smoking is banned on all domestic air flights and will eventually be prohibited on all flights, domestic and international. Smoking is restricted in many office buildings and restaurants and is usually banned on public transportation. Look around before you light a cigarette; non-smoking signs are usually posted in a clear, visible location. If you are in someone else’s house and no one around you is smoking, ask what the rule is before you start.

Health

Health Insurance
There is no National Health insurance in the U.S. This is why the United States Information Agency (USIA) requires that all exchange visitors have insurance meeting their standards. The insurance you will purchase with your DS 2019 will have to be designed to meet these USIA requirements. If a doctor treats you, you may have to pay the bills first and then file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. It is therefore crucial that you keep careful records and receipts of all medical services that you receive.

If you have a major accident or illness and cannot pay your medical costs upfront, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Please refer to your insurance information for details on how to make claims. If you are going to see a doctor for a medical problem that is not an emergency, check your health insurance policy to make sure that this type of treatment is covered. For example, most international health insurance policies do not cover pre-existing medical problems.

Hospitals, Clinics, and Emergency Rooms
Medical fees will depend on the doctor, the type of facility, and its location in the country. In certain areas of the country, especially large cities, medical care will be significantly more expensive. Unless you need immediate treatment, it is better not to go to a hospital Emergency Room to see a doctor. You should use these facilities for emergencies only as they tend to be expensive. When you have established yourself in an area, it is a good idea to find a private doctor. You can ask friends or colleagues or call your local hospital for recommendations.

The Consulate of your country may also be able to provide a list of approved physicians. However, walk-in clinics have sprung up all around the country in recent years. They tend to be less costly, and for people who do not have a continuing relationship with a doctor, they can be a good choice.

Medicine
If you require medicine containing controlled drugs or narcotics (e.g., heart medication, sleeping pills, or stimulants), you should have each of these products properly packaged and labelled. You will not be able to have foreign prescriptions for controlled drugs filled in American pharmacies or by an American doctor. You should also have a statement or prescription from your doctor translated into English indicating that the medicine is being used under the orders of a doctor and is necessary for your physical well-being.

Also, keep in mind that not all over-the-counter medicine is easily available in the United States. For example, birth control pills are not free in the United States. It is best to bring enough drugs to cover any need you might have for them during your entire stay in the United States. This way, you avoid additional costs.

Leisure

Most U.S. cities will have a Tourist Office, Convention & Visitors Bureau, or Chamber of Commerce. A visit to any of these places should be worth the trip, as they are usually able to provide free city maps, local subway and bus maps, and booklets and pamphlets about local tourist attractions, restaurants, and entertainment events.

A visit to your local bookstore should also provide you with a large selection of local and national guidebooks, newspapers, and magazines. Most local publications will have a section listing popular clubs and their weekly entertainment schedules, a review of restaurants in the area and museums, and show times for movies and theatres. In some cities, it is also possible to find free publications that have weekly entertainment listings in addition to restaurant reviews and articles.

Free publications are usually distributed at coffee shops, supermarkets, and tourist offices.
Many people suggest that the best way to discover a new city is on foot! Take some time to get to know your host city, and find those special local places that are not listed in any guidebook or newspaper, but will soon become some of your favourite places to hang out!

Public holidays

1 Jan – New Year’s Day
Third Monday in Jan – Martin Luther King Jr Day
Third Monday in Feb – President’s Day
Mar/Apr – Easter
last Monday in May – Memorial Day
4 Jul – Independence Day
First Monday in Sep – Labor Day
Second Monday in Oct – Columbus Day
11 Nov– Veteran’s Day
Fourth Thursday in Nov – Thanksgiving
25 Dec – Christmas Day

LIVING IN THE U.S.

Whether it is your first time in the U.S. or your fifth, working in a foreign culture can sometimes be difficult and frustrating. The following suggestions are intended to help you adjust to the culture shock of living in the United States for an extended period.

Be open-minded: expect that things will be done differently there than the way they are done in your home country. Give yourself time to adjust, adapt, and learn about how things are done in your host culture.

Keeping a sense of humour will help you get through the frustrating times.

While you will undoubtedly meet many Americans and people from various cultures, it is okay to build a support network of friends from your own culture who will understand your frustration in adjusting to life in the United States.

Asheika Pryce – Jamaica

They say the only way to truly rediscover yourself is to be away from those who know you. Without the pressure of being that which people know you to be, you can truly be yourself. While I experienced this before when I moved from Jamaica, a fresh experience this past summer has shined a new light on who I really am. The break from the routine and the creation of many friendships and new experiences was more than I have the words to accurately express.

I visited some fun and interesting places including Sea World, Towers of America and Six Flags. Mexicans make up a huge part of San Antonio’s culture so I experienced that as well, mainly their food.

Working at ‘The Rainforest Café’ was fun and entertaining and an adventure for kids as well as for adults. Like their logo says “a wild place to show and eat”. Co-workers, supervisors and managers were a pleasure to work with.

Travelling is a mirror into one’s own self, seeing yourself through the eyes of new people and how you react to things when you experience them for the first time. This J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program gave me the opportunity to do just that. This is why I will certainly not resist the urge to participate in this program yet another time next year. Thank you Jobseekers International. It was a well-spent summer.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Lisa Thomas – Grenada

My experience was a great one. I enjoyed my trip to the U.S. The people I met while on this program were really nice. They did their best to show me what their country is like, making sure I had a taste of everything their culture had to offer. I made a lot of friends with whom I shared my culture and they loved it.

My trip back home was long and tiring but was also full of excitement because I got a chance to see a few other states I did not see upon my arrival in the U.S. This is an opportunity I would encourage young people to capitalize on.

This program was shared with us by Jobseekers International Placement Agency. The service I received before and during the program will always be remembered. The process was effortless with them, for what was simply just an awesome summer. I have to say thumbs up to Jobseekers. It was indeed an experience of a lifetime!

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Chantal Barrett – Jamaica

I am an intern at the Parker Hotel in Palm Springs California. I was able to embark on this journey through JobSeekers International Placement Agency. So far I can say the decision to spend a year of my life in a new cultural environment and get to meet different personalities from around the globe is one of the best ones I’ve made in my young adult life. I have the opportunity to work with an amazingly talented Executive Pastry Chef who has already taught me so much and has assured me that over the remaining 10 months of my internship with her there is an endless abundance of knowledge she intends to pass on.

I would encourage anyone to take this step, be aware of what you intend to do with your life, make a plan as to how this opportunity can benefit your future plans/goals, then make the best of meeting all the new and interesting people you are bound to come across, and make life-lasting memories with. That said, it has so far been an eventful adventure being a part of this program, and I am eager to see what I discover in my remaining time here.

Thank you JobSeekers International.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Shenai Millan – Jamaica

My summer experience was awesome. I was placed at the Tan-Tar-A Estates where I worked with the friendliest set of people I have ever met! On my first day in Missouri, the HR manager came by the dorms to take my roommate and me to the resort for orientation. She was very friendly and was always ready to offer assistance whenever needed.

Housekeeping is no easy task but my manager made it fun and at the end of each day I never left work feeling unappreciated. Through interaction, I learned more about the American culture and taught them about my Jamaican culture. We were later joined by 8 Chinese girls. We all got acquainted instantly. I learned how to say hello and goodbye in Chinese and was also informed about Chinese laws.

On my final day at Tan-Tar-A Estates, we celebrated International Housekeeping Day. There was a potluck and everyone was told to take a dish. There was a variety of dishes which included a Jamaican dish (from yours truly), Chinese dishes, American dishes and Mexican dishes. All in all, I truly felt like a part of a family and hope to return.

I can’t find the right words to truly express how great my summer experience was. Thank you JobSeekers and thank you Tan-Tar-A Estates!!!

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Simone Daniels – Barbados

Going away for the first time without any family members or anyone that I know was very terrifying but everyone there quickly made me feel at home. Like everything for the first time, it started off a bit rough in terms of settling in and becoming adjusted to my new responsibilities.

The J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program was an experience I will never forget. Not only did I make new friends with people from all over the globe, but I also grew as a person. Living on your own and without any parental supervision gives you a little taste of adulthood and what real responsibilities feel like. Not only did I make a lot of money but I also got to learn the culture of people from Russia, Colombia, Jamaica, Grenada, France, Ukraine, Thailand and of course the U.S.

This was all possible because Jobseekers International brought the program to our shores. Thank you for the opportunity Jobseekers. It was awesome.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Elvis David – St. Lucia

I’m from the Caribbean Island of St. Lucia and I was able to go on the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program in the U.S. with the help of Jobseekers International about 11 months ago. Thank you Pheona! I am almost done with my internship here in the U.S. It has been a wonderful experience. Since I’m about to finish, I look forward to sharing my newly gained knowledge with everyone back home and somehow taking off later on another adventure in some other country to better understand their culture.

Thank you a million Jobseekers International. It was a blast.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Glema Mitchell- Grenada

Signing up for the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program was the first great step in my culinary experience. I know at the end I would’ve grown not only as an upcoming chef but also as a young woman. Not only have I gained from this experience but I have also become a great asset to my host company.

I’ve always felt safe with JobSeekers International as I was reassured that I will have a placement soon. Information was always there when I needed it and once started the process went by smoothly.

I will always encourage students to participate in the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program. It is definitely a step in the right direction for your future. My advice to anyone planning on participating in this program is to use your waiting period wisely, as it is much shorter than you may realize. Ensure that you have everything in place so when it’s time you’re ready to move.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Karrow Gordon – Jamaica

Since I have been in the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program, I have had a life-changing experience. I have been exposed to new cultures, and people from across the world. I have had hands-on experience in a number of international cuisines. This experience will surely make me far more marketable in my home country. Thank you JobSeekers International for a smooth and hassle-free process.

I am currently completing my training in the Culinary Arts despite all the advice not to do it… “these programs can’t be trusted,” they would say. I can now personally recommend JobSeekers International to my friends and families who have almost completed their process as well. Thumps up to you Jobseekers.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Nathaniel Francis – Grenada

I was informed about the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program while in college but decided to wait another two years after college to participate. All of that changed once I received a phone call asking if I was interested in a position in New York. I said yes and the process began.

I was introduced to a very friendly, hardworking and dedicated staff member from JobSeekers International, without whom none of my progress would have been possible. I have to agree that I gave her a bit of trouble but she always gave it her best to see that everything was somewhat perfect in order to avoid any problems later on down the road.

Due to JobSeekers International and my former lecturers at the T.A. Marryshow Community College, I am able to move closer to my dream of becoming a Certified Executive Chef and owning my own restaurant. The opportunity to learn is tremendous not just in culinary, but mentally and life lessons. I have even picked up on some Spanish. “La mejor oportunidad y estoy agradecido”; “it’s a great opportunity and I am grateful” for it.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Welcome to Jobseekers International Placement Agency

We aim to assist individuals seeking employment overseas, from professionals to full-time students in university or
college pursuing their field of studies. We currently offer three of the major J-1 Cultural Exchange Programs in the United States, to individuals throughout the English-speaking Caribbean Islands. We charge ourselves with the task of locating positions that will not only have our candidates earn financially, but also gain international experience and work ethics that will make them far more marketable amongst their counterparts in their fields.

About Us

We are registered with the Ministry of Labour in Jamaica to operate as a recruiting organization, bringing international employers and job seekers together.

Located in Kingston, Jamaica, Jobseekers International Placement Agency (JIPA) brings a fresh and innovative approach to international recruitment programs .

JIPA started as the brain child of our Managing Director, Pheona Wilson, who in 2003 had difficulties in finding a job. In an effort to move back in the employment line, a decision to assist unemployed individuals in finding jobs locally was made, hence creating a job and the eventual birth of Jobseekers Employment Agency (JEA).

The success at local employment resulted in recommendations by satisfied employers to other employers and in 2004, JEA was requested by Auto Body Works & Paint Ltd., an employer in Grand Cayman, to provide two experienced and qualified auto-mechanics. This venture was an astounding success and brought for JEA its first taste at international job placement. Though the number was only two, the appreciation and gratitude expressed by the applicants and employer was overwhelming and encouraged JEA to explore further. In 2007, Jobseekers International Placement Agency (JIPA) was officially established.

Since then we have worked with Universities and Colleges locally, offering the J1 programs to students and graduates. We have formed alliances and partnerships with international recruiters and sponsors who have worked with us, allowing us to offer reliable and efficient service to our applicants.

Our goal is to always exceed the expectations of our applicants by offering a customer friendly environment, increased flexibility, a personal touch with superb customer service, to ensure that they always get value for their money from a system that functions effectively.

Our services have been extended to institutions outside our shores. We are happy to be able to present these opportunities to institutions in other islands such as Grenada, Barbados, Panama, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Vincent and Costa Rica. Having their students share in the whelm of benefit that these programs have to offer.

Adasha Grant – Grenada

The J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program is a great program. It allows students to travel and experience other cultures and share their culture with other students across the world. I must say it was an enjoyable, informative and productive experience for me. I was exposed to a diversity of different cultures. It was so exciting for me to share my culture and let others know about my beautiful country. I also took part in some cultural activities and was able to share in the July 4th celebrations. It was a wonderful experience for me, it was a summer earning and having fun.

I just want to say a special thank you to JobSeekers International for bringing this program to my country, Grenada, and for the great service before, during and after the program. It was simply a splendid summer of 2015.

 

Are you interested in applying for any of our Programs? Find out if you are eligible here.

Our Sister Companies

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CaribIsle Tours

Your one stop shop for all your tours and travel needs. Passport renewals, visa appointments and applications, airline tickets, airport transfers, car rental, educational and recreational tours, local and international destinations. Let us get you on that dream vacation. Let us help you discover your world.

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CaribIsle Wedding and Events

Casual, formal, large, small, family gathering, conferences, festivals we are equipped with the staff, the experience and the personality to make your event just what you want it to be. Entrust us with your special day, we will make your I do, your dream come true.

Career Corner

It’s the start of a new summer work and travel season and companies are geared up to promote and present this amazing opportunity to students. Some may have been on the program before, others will have the opportunity to experience it for the first time.

The benefits of participating in this program or any J1 Work and Travel Program are simply marvellous. The experience teaches so much and gives insight into cultures that many of us haven’t even read about. The friendship formed, alliances made, growth and maturity that so many participating students can speak to and not to mention the financial gain.

Given the recent report out of the United States about the actions of a few Jamaican students, we now know that there is another side to the coin. What repercussions will this have for the future of the program? Hmmmm…. Life gives us choices, going on the program is a choice, and choosing the company to get you there is a choice. Therefore, try to figure out what you want from the opportunities you have been given, what will you take from the experiences? Your experience is dependent on the choices you make.

Notice Board

  • J-1 Summer Work and Travel 2023 registration is now closed.
  • We are still registering for the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program in the U.S.A. Apply here.
  • We are still registering for the J-1 Teach USA Program. Apply here.
  • We are still recruiting Care Assistants to work in the UK. Call 876-906-3654 for more info.
  • Need financial assistance with your payments? Ask us how. Conditions apply.
  • Find out about our J-1 Intern/Trainee Program in the USA, our Professional Chefs positions in Australia and our Internship in Agriculture Program in Germany.

Regards,

Pheona Wilson

Upcoming Events

Employment Opportunities

 

Location Company Position Start Date
Rhineland/Germany Garden Center Greenhouse Intern October 2017
Munich Fertilizer Manufacturer Research Assistant November 2017
Bavaria Goat Farm Breeding Intern December 2017
Bremen Dairy Farm Milk Production Intern November 2017
Wiesbaden Milking Farm Livestock Intern November 2017
Munich/Germany Greenhouse Greenhouse Intern November 2017
Westphalia/Germany Seed Farm Seed Farm – Trainee November 2017
Frankfurt Vegetable Farm Horticulture Intern November 2017
Rhineland Corn Farm Agronomy Intern October 2017
Bavaria Hops Farm Harvest Intern November 2017
Munich/Germany Vegetable Greenhouse Greenhouse Intern October 2017
Hamburg Vegetable Farm Agronomy Intern November 2017
Cologne Flower Producer Intern – Floriculture October 2017
Westphalia/Germany Pig Farm Research Intern November 2017

 

Are you eligible?

 

J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program

 

  1. Are you between 18 – 28 years old?
  2. Are you a full-time student or graduate of a Tertiary Institution?
  3. Do you have a Passport valid at least six months past your program end date?
  4. Do you speak English?

 

If you answered yes to all of these questions, then go ahead and apply here for the J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program.

 

J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program

 

  1. Are you registered in a Tertiary Institution in the hospitality and tourism field?
  2. Have you completed your studies in the hospitality and tourism field?
  3. Do you have a minimum of five (5) years of work experience in the field you are applying for?

 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then go ahead and apply here for the J-1 Intern/Trainee Hospitality Program.

 

Internship in Agriculture Program

 

  1. Are you registered in a Tertiary Institution in the agriculture or veterinary field?
  2. Have you completed four semesters of studies?
  3. Do you have a basic knowledge of English or German?
  4. Are you open to new cultures?
  5. Are you willing to learn?
  6. Do you have a valid passport?

 

If you answered yes to all of these questions, then go ahead and apply here for the Internship in Agriculture Program.

 

***Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Conditions apply.