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Summer Work and Travel Program

Program Introduction

The Summer Work & Travel USA Program is founded on the Smith-Mundt Act of 1948, which laid the groundwork for U.S. exchange visitor programs. Before being introduced to mainland China, the program had already operated successfully for over 60 years in Europe, the Americas, and various Asian countries and regions. Each year, approximately 150,000 students worldwide participate in this program, using their summer vacation to work at U.S. companies under a J-1 visa for a three-month cultural exchange and practical training period, followed by up to one month of travel. Participants gain first-hand experience of American society, culture, and customs while improving their English and expanding their global perspective. A unique feature of this program is that it allows college students from around the world to work side-by-side with American peers and other international participants. All students are legally employed, receive the same wages as their American coworkers, and are covered by medical and accident insurance. Supervised by the U.S. government, the program not only enhances students’ professional and language skills but also helps reduce the financial burden of experiencing life in the United States.

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Program Introduction

Program Advantages
- Designated and supervised by the U.S. Department of State, with strong guarantees for program safety and legality
  
  Gain real-world work experience in American companies, enhancing future employability
  
  Improve independent living skills and build greater self-confidence
  
  Live and work with peers from around the world, fostering intercultural communication and a global mindset
  
  Participate in official U.S. cultural exchange programs and establish a strong U.S. visa record
  
  Earn a salary that typically covers daily living expenses in the U.S., minimizing financial burden
  
  Visit renowned U.S. universities, enhancing institutional reputation and ensuring legal protection for outbound students
  
  Work side-by-side with American colleagues in an immersive English-speaking environment to strengthen communication skills
Job Description

Summer Work and Travel Programs for university students are available across the United States, with placements at well-known destinations such as Universal Orlando Resort, Disneyland, Six Flags Magic Mountain in Los Angeles, Yellowstone National Park, and luxury five-star hotels. In compliance with U.S. Department of State regulations, all international interns work under a well-established labor system, receive equal treatment, and earn the same pay as other program participants.
- Sales Assistant
- Amusement Park Attendant
- Lifeguard
- Kitchen Help
- Housekeeper
Discover more exciting roles and start your journey!
Program Operation Process

1. Work with universities to promote the program and recruit students

2. Conduct oral English tests

3. Arrange interviews with sponsors and host companies

4. Send out offers to selected candidates

5. Wait for the DS-2019 form to be issued

6. Support the visa application process

7. Provide preparation and assistance before departure

8. Depart for the United States to start the program
Salary and Accommodation
- Salary
  
  Program salary: About $10–18 per hour
  
  Working hours: Usually 32–40 hours per week for three months. Overtime pay (over 40 hours) is about 1.5 times regular pay (overtime rates vary depending on the employer’s policy.).
  
  Accommodation
  
  Housing is assigned based on availability and may include apartments, hotels, or employee dormitories, with differences in cost and roommates.
  
  1. Apartments
  
  Provided by companies, usually short-term rentals with higher rent than local annual rates. Typically, 2–3 share a bedroom, 6–9 share an apartment, with full community facilities.
  
  2. Hotels
  
  Shared rooms, includes free breakfast, cleaning, and some amenities, but no kitchen for cooking.
  
  3. Employee Dormitories
  
  Simple dorms with basic facilities.
Application Requirements

★Must guarantee return to China on time after the program

★Possess basic English communication skills and pass the organizer’s assessment and interview

★Willing to accept assigned work, with a proactive, diligent, and responsible attitude

★Respect company rules and regulations, supervisors, and colleagues

★Independent, healthy, optimistic, and open to new experiences

★Willing to support others and represent the spirit of Chinese university students

★Able to integrate into local society and actively share Chinese culture and traditions

★Aged 18–30, full-time university students with good academic and overall performance, recommended by their school after review

What You Will Gain

Valuable international friendships and a cultural trip to the U.S. Overseas living and work experience Strong communication and interpersonal skills A solid visa record and potential recommendation letters from U.S. companies Improved spoken English and a stronger sense of independence