Various internship programs abroad are quite popular today. Pioneers from the CIS countries went to the United States in the mid-nineties. By the end of the millennium, the exchange took place quite actively in both directions. Well, today you won’t surprise anyone with the fact that you lived and worked in the United States of America for several months. But can everyone participate in these programs?
Who can become a trainee
Internship in the USA is now available to almost everyone. The programs are so diverse that everyone can choose their own option. The prerequisites are only knowledge of the English language at the proper level and the absence of a criminal record.
If you are studying at a university and have already completed at least three courses, then an internship in the USA for students will be of interest to you. In addition, you can take an additional course in your speci alty at an American institution.
If you are already a graduate, then consider programs for young professionals.
A number of American universities and large companies in the United States regularly open their own programs for students and young professionals. Taking advantage of these chances, it is often possible to even get a residence permit.
Internships in the US also differ between qualified and unskilled.
Be careful when choosing a program, as there may not be a second chance to get another internship. Under US law, it is almost impossible to re-enroll in the program.
Age limits
Internship in the USA has several types of programs. People of all ages can participate in them. The most common are student programs for students who have completed at least one year of university, and young professionals who have received their diploma no more than 1 year ago. Participants are between 18 and 28 years old.
The second option is suitable for those who graduated more than a year ago and have at least one year of work experience in their speci alty, which they can confirm. The age of the participant is 20-38 years old.
Why choose USA
The United States has long been overgrown with an immeasurable number of myths, which gives this country an aura of strength and power. In the eyes of our compatriots, a professional paid internship in the USA is a sign of a truly strong andeducated person. After all, everyone knows that any American business is aimed at profit, legality and adheres to the principles of fair competition. Agree, all this is an invaluable experience, especially when the intern really has to work. And they have to, they get an interesting experience, because no employer will pay for the training of a specialist without getting a return.
That is why the doors of many international companies in their home countries are opening for the participants.
When an employer finds an internship in the USA in his resume, the employer will undoubtedly breathe a sigh of relief, because this means that the applicant speaks English at the proper level. Namely, today it is the language of interethnic communication and all international business.
Experience in a multicultural and multinational environment is also an undeniable advantage. In the United States, as nowhere else, they teach that all people are different. Participants of the programs live in conditions that help to show the strongest personal qualities.
Given that the United States is one of the leaders in the global economy, for many employers it will be a plus to invite an employee who knows the whole “kitchen” of this business from the inside.
Programs
Internship programs are developed by various bodies. Projects sponsored by the US government are subject to a number of conditions. For example, it is mandatory to return to your country at the end of the internship and live there for at least two years after.
This is why many choose employer-sponsored programs. These include "Internship in America for Young Professionals."
This program is intended not only for final year students, but also for those who have already graduated from their speci alty. The position for each participant is selected taking into account his education and professional experience and interest.
Internships for high school graduates have lost some of their popularity. This is partly due to the fact that the age of majority in our countries varies.
A letter of recommendation for an organization will most often help you organize an intermediary company. It is very easy to find such a company today. In the market for such services, there are many companies with a good reputation and positive customer reviews. As a rule, an organization with a long history will help you not only find a job, write a letter of recommendation, but also help you quickly get a visa, find accommodation in America, purchase tickets, and more. If all of the above steps confuse you, then an intermediary company is what you need.
Visas from Russia
Visa to America for trainees is issued according to type J. This is a special type of visa for participants in exchange programs.
The cost of a visa is an average of 160 US dollars. Additional consular and visa fees may apply. Depending on the nationality of the applicant, the price may vary. Citizens of the Russian Federation may be issued visas valid for up to three years.
Forto obtain a visa, you must also submit a package of documents (questionnaires, copies and originals of documentation, an invitation to work/study, travel checks, etc.) and pass an interview.
Visas for other states
The procedure for obtaining visas for citizens from other CIS countries is slightly different.
The only special feature is that you can sign up for an interview only by providing a receipt for payment of $ 160 from a single specific bank.
Required documents
Visa to America is not something unattainable. Getting it usually goes pretty smoothly if all conditions are met thoroughly.
The main document is a questionnaire. You can find a copy and an example of filling out on the official website of the embassy or consulate.
In addition to the mandatory, there are a number of documents that can positively affect the decision. In principle, you can attach any documents confirming the purpose of the trip, ties with Russia, previous business or tourist trips abroad, as well as correspondence related to the planned trip under this exchange program.
Interestingly, you don't have to print the visa photo, it is enough to submit it electronically.
A letter of recommendation for an organization included in your file can also be a plus.
How not to get scammed
Programs are developed by US authorities or employers. Most companies organizing internships from the CIS countries are only intermediaries. So don't be surprisedbecause different companies provide very similar offers.
However, when choosing a company, be vigilant. In order not to get hooked by scammers, pay attention to the presence of a real office. I would like to know if it was rented only a month ago on a short-term lease.
There are also decent newcomers trying to break into the intermediary market. However, if the company already has experience, reviews of satisfied customers, then this is a big plus. Check the reviews not only on the official website of the organization, it is better to communicate with real people who used the services of this company. This will help you not only to verify the reality of the intermediary, but also to choose the most convenient form of cooperation for yourself.
Find out if there is any support in force majeure situations. You should be able to contact company representatives from anywhere in the country at any time of the day. It is also best to check this information with the feedback of people who have already participated in the programs.
A prerequisite is the availability of licenses and accreditations. Their authenticity is easy to verify in official registries.
Do not be too lazy to check the agreements with the hosts. Knowing the names of American partners, it is easy to find information about them.
Travel
Interestingly, almost any internship program includes time for free travel around the country.
You will be able to visit attractions that were previously known only from Hollywood films.
Travel availability varies greatly by regionyour stay. But, honestly, I must say that in any state there are unique and very interesting places, visiting which you will remember your stay here with pride and gratitude.
