Getting Started
PII would like to welcome all of you to our work and travel program. As your sponsor, we are offering you the opportunity for a DS 2019, therefore, enabling you to apply for a J 1 Visa. Work and Travel (WAT) program allows you to come to the United States as more than a tourist. You are able to participate in our culture, as well as experience our work environment. Since you are working, you will be able to afford to live and travel in the United States for the duration of your J-1 Visa. The program is sponsored by the Philadelphia International Institute. PII has been operating international exchange programs for many years. As your sponsor, PII is here to help you in any way needed. PII hopes this experience is an enjoyable and rewarding one for you!
This handbook is for the use foreign exchange students, from all over the world, which come to the United States to work and travel. Within this guidebook PII has included information useful to students of all nationalities. Any specific information regarding your country will be available from your local PII office or your cooperating office. There are also guidelines, such as regional directions,information on transportation, how to do things and how not to do things. This source book guides you through the American workplace and culture. PII is here to help you throughout this experience; so do not feel overwhelmed, only excitement for the adventure you are about to embark on!
As a participant in the program, you will be able to experience a foreign culture impossible to know as a tourist. WAT allows you the chance to make new friends while internationalizing your resume (CV). As you earn money and travel you will gain a distinct insight into the life and culture of the United States. You will learn how the other side of the world lives from an inside view! It is always challenging beginning a new job, especially when it is in a foreign country. Yet, this work experience will be an exciting one. There may be difficulties in your adventure, but PII is here to help. Through your WAT program you will broaden your horizons. Through this program you will acquire an indepth knowledge of the American culture, as well as develop skills to help you in your future. You may even gain a totally new perspective of your own culture and abilities. PII is offering you a unique opportunity to find your own possibilities, which may open up many new paths. With an open mind and sense of adventure, this may turn out to be the best time of your life!We wish you luck on your journey and hope this book is helpful for you along the way.
PII Work and Travel