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ORIENTATION HANDBOOK WORK & TRAVEL USA
ORIENTATION HANDBOOK
WORK & TRAVEL USA
WORK & TRAVEL USA ORIENTATION
HANDBOOK
CIEE Customer Service: 1-888-COUNCIL [email protected] www.ciee.org/wat 1
Contents Section 1 – Welcome .................................................................................................................................... 3
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 3 About International Exchange ................................................................................................................... 3 Meet Your Sponsor, CIEE ......................................................................................................................... 4 Stay Curious .............................................................................................................................................. 4
Section 2 – Let’s Get Started ........................................................................................................................ 5
Prepare for a Great Experience ................................................................................................................ 5 Essential Documents ................................................................................................................................. 6 Get to Know Your Required Documents ................................................................................................... 6 Plan Your Finances ................................................................................................................................... 7 Health Check ............................................................................................................................................. 7 IMPORTANT: Plan Ahead for Housing ..................................................................................................... 8 Housing Resources ................................................................................................................................... 8
Section 3 – Traveling to the United States .................................................................................................... 9
Travel to the United States ........................................................................................................................ 9 Immigration and Customs .......................................................................................................................... 9 Prepare for Travel Challenges................................................................................................................. 10
Section 4 – First Days in the United States ................................................................................................ 11
MANDATORY: Register for SEVIS ......................................................................................................... 11 Your First Day at Work ............................................................................................................................ 11 MANDATORY: Apply for a Social Security Number ............................................................................... 12 Your First Paycheck ................................................................................................................................ 12 Opening a Bank Account ......................................................................................................................... 13 Best Practices for Housing ...................................................................................................................... 13
Section 5 – Living in the United States ....................................................................................................... 14
MANDATORY: Follow All Program Rules ............................................................................................... 14 CIEE Monthly Survey .............................................................................................................................. 14 Laws in the United States ........................................................................................................................ 15 Getting Around ........................................................................................................................................ 16 Emergencies ............................................................................................................................................ 16 CIEE Health Insurance ............................................................................................................................ 18 Healthcare Resources ............................................................................................................................. 18 Exploring the United States ..................................................................................................................... 19
Section 6 – Working in the United States ................................................................................................... 19
The U.S. Workplace ................................................................................................................................ 19 Challenges at Work ................................................................................................................................. 20 Before You Leave Your Job .................................................................................................................... 20
Section 7 – Traveling in America, and Returning Home ............................................................................. 21
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More Sights, More Opportunities for Discovery....................................................................................... 21 Completing Your Job ............................................................................................................................... 21 Moving Out of Housing ............................................................................................................................ 22 Taxes ....................................................................................................................................................... 22 Staying Connected with CIEE ................................................................................................................. 22 Thank You! .............................................................................................................................................. 23
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Section 1 – Welcome
Introduction
Introduction
Welcome to the CIEE Work & Travel USA Orientation! This is the place to find all the information you
need to prepare for your experience in the United States. It takes about one hour to complete. That’s time
well spent, when you consider it will make everything go more smoothly down the road. Please give
yourself time and space to read each section carefully.
How to complete this orientation:
Read and complete each section. This will earn you 50 points, and show us that you have
reviewed all materials.
You can refer to this information via the Unleesh app or on your computer anytime during your
program – there’s no need to remember it all or take lots of notes. Learn more about how to use
Unleesh here.
Ask questions along the way, and discover what fellow CIEE Work & Travel USA participants
have to share.
Along the way, you’ll hear from other CIEE Work & Travel USA participants about their experiences living
and working in the United States. Before you begin, take a minute to watch the video below, and meet our
team at CIEE headquarters in Portland, Maine.
Take Action
Step One: complete this section by clicking the START NOW button below.
About International Exchange
CIEE Work & Travel USA is so much more than a job. It’s an exciting journey of cultural discovery, full of
opportunities to engage with new people and explore new places. The J-1 Visa is part of the U.S.
Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program. Not a tourism visa, it is designed to provide richer, more
meaningful connections, bringing foreign nationals to the United States to explore American culture and
encourage understanding among all.
The Summer Work Travel program is by far the biggest program within the Exchange Visitor Program. It
allows students from all over the world to travel to the United States during their summer holidays to work
in seasonal jobs at U.S. tourist areas.
With this unique opportunity, you’ll make new friends, live in the United States like an American, gain
confidence, independence, and experience – and have an unforgettable summer!
Take Action
What are you most looking forward to?
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Meet Your Sponsor, CIEE
Meet CIEE CIEE – the Council on International Educational Exchange – is your J-1 visa sponsor for your Work & Travel USA Program. The U.S. Department of State has approved us to sponsor program participants like you while you visit the United States. We are here to help you have a great experience. We issue paperwork for your visa, make sure you are aware of and follow program rules, and look out for your safety and well being while you are here. Please stay in touch during your program. Call on us to help with any problems you encounter, such as questions about your paycheck, challenges on the job, and medical concerns. There are two easy ways to reach us:
Call 888-268-6245, any time of the day or night, any day of the year. Add it to your phone now!
Send us an email at [email protected]. We’ll respond as soon as possible. It’s important to check your email frequently while you’re in the States so you don’t miss reminders for required tasks, cultural insights, news about cultural activities near you, and other updates. The CIEE team is not just here for problems. We love to hear from you! Tag us in your photos and videos with the hashtag #CIEEWorkTravelers, and we may share your photos! Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cieewat/ Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ciee_workandtravel_usa/ Snapchat: CIEE_WorkTravel YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/cieeworkandtravel
Take Action Add CIEE to your phone now – 888-268-6245.
Stay Curious
The United States is a vast land with many kinds of living experiences. One thing is certain: no matter where you go, it will be different from your home country. Some things will be positive, and some may be negative. We encourage you to keep an open mind, and respond to each day with curiosity, instead of judgement. Be prepared for a period of cultural adjustment. At first, most participants are excited and happy to be in a new place. As you begin to adjust, it’s normal for excitement to wear off, leaving you anxious and even frustrated. Give yourself time to build a new routine and gain confidence. Eventually you’ll feel right at home. These periods are all part of cultural exchange. Be flexible. To avoid feeling frustrated, misled, or let down, keep your expectations, schedule, and outlook as open and flexible as possible. Be patient with yourself and others.
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Be curious about yourself and everything around you. Take part, and reflect about the differences you notice from home. It’s the best way to get all you can from this program. No matter how you are feeling, you are never alone. You can contact us 24 hours a day, by calling CIEE at 888-268-6245 to talk. We’re always happy to hear from you. Now, take a look at the video to hear some of our participants share their impressions of the United States.
Take Action:
Think about how you will adjust to the culture of the United States, and consider coping strategies for the
first few weeks.
Section 2 – Let’s Get Started
Prepare for a Great Experience
Prepare for a great experience Set yourself up for a rewarding adventure in the USA by carefully researching your job and host community. Follow these steps:
1. Review your job offer form Make sure all information is accurate. This is an agreement, not a contract, and it should help set your expectations for your program. If you have questions about your offer, contact your agent or CIEE.
2. Contact your employer Introduce yourself, share information about yourself, and ask questions. You might ask about housing options, transportation from the airport, and what to expect during the first weeks.
3. Learn about your destination Find out what there is to see and do. Know what temperature and weather to expect. This will help you plan and pack for your stay.
Helpful Information About Your Summer Work & Travel Program – Download and Print U.S. State Department Exchange Visitor Welcome brochure Summer Work Travel USA Participant Welcome letter (PDF) Summer Work Travel USA brochure (PDF) Wilberforce pamphlet: Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers Take Action What can you ask your employer in order to help prepare for your experience?
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Essential Documents
Document Checklist
You must have certain documents in hand to enter the United States. Some of those documents will
come from your international representative, CIEE, or your employer. Others, like your passport, are your
responsibility. Make an extra photocopy of each document, and pack both sets in different places in
your carry-on luggage!
Documents provided by your international representative, employer, or CIEE:
DS-2019 form
SEVIS receipt
Job offer form
Confirmation of insurance
Insurance identification card
CIEE Work & Travel USA info card
Documents you must obtain on your own:
Passport
U.S. J-1 Visa
Customs Declaration Form 6059B
Learn more about these important documents on the CIEE website.
Take Action:
How should I get my documents to the United States?
Pack in checked luggage
Pack in carry-on luggage
Mail ahead
Correct answer: You should always pack important documents in carry-on luggage.
Get to Know Your Required Documents
If your answer was pack important documents in your carry-on, that’s correct! This is the best way to keep these documents with you at all times while you are traveling. Take a minute to learn more about each document and why it’s important. Watch the video carefully so you can answer the question below. For more information about these essential documents, please review our website. Still confused? Contact your agent with questions. Take Action: Where can you find your DS2019 number? Correct answer: On the top right corner of my DS2019 form
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Plan Your Finances
Plan Your Finances
After you arrive in the United States, you won’t get your first paycheck for several weeks. In the
meantime, you’ll need to pay all of your expenses. U.S. Customs might also ask for proof that you have at
least $800 with you (cash and bank statements are acceptable).
CIEE strongly recommends that you have access to at least $1,000 in cash, travelers’ checks, or credit or
debit cards.
Expect to spend a great deal of money in the first few weeks, especially if you do not have housing
arranged in advance. Your expenses may include a housing deposit, transportation to and from work,
transportation to and from the Social Security Office, a uniform, and daily meals.
Typical expenses for the start of your stay:
Airport hotel: $50-$150 per night
Taxi from airport to housing: $20-$100
Housing deposit: $100-$400
Rent for the first month: $300-$500
Groceries: $200-$250
Public transportation: $30-$50
Uniform: $25-$50.
Bicycle, light, and helmet: $25-$200
Take Action:
Do you have access to at least $800?
Health Check
Take Care of Your Health Before You Depart
For most participants, CIEE provides medical insurance. This covers sudden illnesses and emergencies
while you are in the United States, but does not cover routine medical procedures, annual examinations,
or dental care. Visit your doctor and dentist before you depart!
Now is the time to:
Set up and complete medical and dental appointments.
Order any prescription medications you’ll need – enough to last the duration of your stay in the
United States. Ask your local embassy if there are documents you need to enter the United
States with this medication.
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To learn more about CIEE insurance, please visit our insurance website. Students who purchased their
Work & Travel USA program in Ireland have a separate insurance plan. Contact CIEE or your
international representative for more information.
Take Action:
I scheduled my appointments and ordered medications I will need.
IMPORTANT: Plan Ahead for Housing
Start your search now.
The more you know about what to expect before you leave your home country, the easier it will be to get
settled when you arrive in the United States. Use the Internet to research housing, transportation, and
geography, as well as destinations and activities.
Find housing before you come to the United States.
If your employer does not provide housing, you can still ask him/her about housing options near your
workplace. The Internet makes it easy to find apartments – but look out for housing scams. Unusually low
rent, requests to wire money or give cash to people you do not know are warning signs. If a deal sounds
too good to be true, it probably is. Use your instincts, and if you are not sure, talk with your employer or
agent, or call CIEE.
Even in areas where there is a lot of student housing, the best options fill up early. Start looking for
long-term housing now!
Have a place to stay when you arrive.
If you are unable to find permanent housing before you leave, you must arrange short-term
accommodations such as a hotel, hostel, or motel before you leave for the United States. Plan according
to your travel itinerary, and book a place to stay when you arrive. If you will travel by bus or train to your
final destination, you may need to arrange accommodations in more than one place.
Take Action:
I have made plans for my first nights in the United States.
Housing Resources
If your employer does not provide housing, use this list of online resources to start your search:
Craigslist.org – This free classified advertisement website serves many areas of the United States. There is no cost to place an ad on Craigslist, so you’ll find affordable housing here.
Apartmentlist.com – Search by neighborhood with many filtering options. Log in with your Facebook account to access special features.
Apartments.com – Apartment listings by state and city. Sign up and ask for listings to be emailed to you. Includes an iPhone app.
Roommates.com – Lists apartments where people are looking for roommates. Services like this are often free to join, but often charge fees and may take longer than other options.
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Airbnb.com – Offers short-term stays in private apartments, and lists monthly rentals.
Facebook.com – Join CIEE Work & Travel USA on Facebook to connect with other students looking for roommates near you.
Read this document, and start looking for a place to live!
Take Action:
Review the attached document, and think about where you will live in the United States.
Button: Done
Section 3 – Traveling to the United States
Travel to the United States
Finalizing Transportation Plan to arrive a day or two before the start date specified on your job offer form. Check the dates on your DS-2019 form with your employer, and make sure their information matches yours. When you’ve made your travel plans, share your flight information with your employer and international representative. Plan how you will get from the airport to your place of employment or your temporary accommodations. If your employer doesn’t arrange transportation, search online for bus schedules or other public transportation options. Let your employer know what your plans are when they are final. Travel Checklist Think through your entire journey, from when you leave your home to when you will arrive at your temporary or permanent housing.
Do you have all important documents, money, prescription drugs, and valuables where you can access them in your carry-on luggage.
Will you need to spend a night at an airport hotel before traveling to your final destination? Did you make reservations?
How will you get from the airport to your housing?
Do you have the phone numbers for your employer, friends you may be traveling with, and CIEE (888-268-6245) with you?
Not sure what to pack? Visit the CIEE website for helpful suggestions!
Take Action:
I will use this checklist to be sure I’m prepared.
Immigration and Customs
Arrival
When you arrive in the United States and before you leave the airport, you must pass through
Immigration and Customs. There may be separate lines for U.S. citizens and Green Card-holders and
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other visitors – make sure you join the line for visitors!
Immigration
At Immigration, officials will verify your passport, DS-2019 form, I-94 number, and J-1 Visa. Officials will
take your photograph and fingerprint, and ask questions about your citizenship, this program, and where
you will stay. They will also ask about information on your documents. Many airports now have automated
passport control, where you go through these steps at an electronic kiosk.
Don’t worry. This is all customary, and required for most people coming into the United States. Just make
sure you have all the documents at hand and be prepared to answer questions.
Customs
Next you will get your luggage, and continue to Customs. Expect officials to open your luggage for
inspection and ask for your Customs declaration form, which tells them what you are bringing with you.
Take Action:
Think through the process of immigration and customs so you are prepared upon arrival.
Prepare for Travel Challenges
Travel Challenges
Even when you plan travel well, sometimes things go wrong. Here are some common travel issues and
advice on how to handle them.
Missed connecting flight
If you miss a connecting flight due to travel delays, find an agent with your airline and ask him/her to book
you on the next flight. You can also call your airline’s toll-free number and to talk to an agent about a new
itinerary. Many provide free telephones in major airports. Call or email your employer if you will arrive later
than expected.
Lost luggage
Check with your airline’s lost luggage office at airport baggage claim area.
Lost documents
If you lose one or more documents, use your backup set of photocopies that includes your passport, DS-
2019 form, and J1 Visa. Report a lost passport to airport security right away.
Visit the CIEE website for more information and tips about travel.
Take Action:
Do you know what to do if anything goes wrong during your journey?
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Section 4 – First Days in the United States
MANDATORY: Register for SEVIS
Call CIEE to register for SEVIS
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security keeps track of visitors with a system called SEVIS – the
Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. All J-1 Visa holders must register. You cannot
register until you’ve arrived in the United States, and you have 10 days after the start date on your DS-
2019 form to complete registration. If you fail to do this, you will have to immediately return home.
Call CIEE at 888-268-6245 to register, and have this information ready:
• DS-2019 number
• U.S. address
• U.S. work address
• Email address
• U.S. phone number, if applicable
Take Action:
When should I call CIEE to register for SEVIS?
As soon as my plane lands.
Within 10 days of arriving in the United States.
Any time.
Correct answer: Call CIEE to register for SEVIS within 10 days of arriving in the United States.
Your First Day at Work
What to Expect on Your First Day
Your employer expects you to start working on the date listed on your job offer. (Now you know why it’s
important to let your employer know your travel plans ahead of time!)
Your first day will include completing paperwork and training. You will also meet with your supervisor or a
representative from the human resources department. When you arrive at work, feel free to ask questions
if you’re unsure of anything.
Bring these documents with you on the first day:
Passport
J-1 Visa
DS-2019 form
I-94 form – click here for this form
Proof that you’ve applied for a Social Security number (a copy of the application form or a copy
of application receipt)
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Take Action:
Button: OK
MANDATORY: Apply for a Social Security Number
You Must Have a Social Security Number
You need a Social Security number (SSN) to get paid, open a bank account, and pay taxes. You will also
need to share your SSN with your landlord. If you are a returning participant and already have a Social
Security Number, bring your card with you to the United States.
Apply for a Social Security number five (5) business days after completing SEVIS registration by visiting
a local Social Security office – find one here.
Bring the following documents with you:
DS-2019 form
Passport with J-1 Visa
When you apply for a Social Security number, you will get a receipt. Keep this important document
safe. Show it to your employer to prove that you are eligible to begin work. You may also need it to open
a bank account or rent an apartment.
You should treat your Social Security number as confidential information and avoid giving it out
unnecessarily. You should keep your Social Security card in a safe place with your other important
papers. Don’t carry it with you unless you need to show it to an employer or service provider.
Take Action:
When should I apply for a Social Security number?
As soon as I arrive.
Five days after SEVIS registration
Never.
Correct Answer: Five days after SEVIS registration
Your First Paycheck
Your First Paycheck
Be aware you may need to wait several weeks for your first paycheck. This means it’s important to be
able to pay your expenses for up to one month. (Learn more in the pre-departure checklist).
Your first paycheck may also be smaller than expected. This could happen if you started work in the
middle of a pay period (most are two weeks), if you’re working fewer hours during training, or if it’s early in
the season and your employer is not busy enough to give you full hours yet. The weekly hours listed in
your job profile are based on an average of the entire season, so be patient!
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When you receive a paycheck, review it carefully to make sure it is correct, and that you are not paying
Social Security or Medicare taxes. You ARE required to pay federal, state, and sometimes local taxes. If
you have a question, speak with your manager as soon as possible.
Take Action:
It may be several weeks before I get paid. I will plan accordingly.
Opening a Bank Account
Opening a Bank Account
Having a U.S. bank account makes living in the United States easier, and it’s a smart way to protect your
money. Banks offer different types of accounts – choose a checking account. Look for banks that do
not require a minimum balance or charge ATM fees. If you can, choose a bank with a location or ATM
near where you work or live.
Bring these documents to the bank to open an account:
Passport with J-1 Visa
DS-2019 form
Your Social Security application receipt or your Social Security number
A letter from your employer confirming your employment
Take Action:
I understand I will need to open a bank account.
Best Practices for Housing
Best Practices for Housing
Before you agree to rent a place to stay, ask questions. This is the best way to avoid misunderstandings
that could lead to problems, like noisy neighbors, or having to pay for damage that occurred before you
moved in.
Leases and Rental Agreements
Landlords are allowed by law to collect a security deposit when a tenant moves in. This deposit is usually
equal to one month's rent. This money will be returned to you when you leave, as long as there has been
no damage to the apartment and you have kept your part of the lease agreement.
As you can see, it’s important to inspect your new apartment with your landlord before you sign a lease or
rental agreement. Get a written record of any existing damage and a list of all included furnishings and
their condition, from your landlord. Take photos when you first move in for your records.
Agreements with Roommates
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If you share housing with other people, you don’t need to be best friends, but you do need to respect
each other and set clear expectations. Make an agreement in writing about how you will share costs for
rent, electricity, water, food, and more. Talk about cleaning and chores, personal space, privacy, food,
hours, guests, and noise before you move in.
Find a list of helpful questions for landlords and roommates on the CIEE Website.
Take Action:
How can you make sure you’ll get your security deposit back?
Section 5 – Living in the United States
MANDATORY: Follow All Program Rules
As a CIEE participant, there are some rules you must follow. If you do not follow CIEE program rules, you
are at risk of CIEE shortening your Work & Travel program. Shortening your program means that your
CIEE sponsorship and insurance are ended. You are no longer legally allowed to work. If you stay in the
U.S. after your program has been shortened, you will be here at your own risk and will not have
insurance. Your program may be shortened if you break these program rules:
Fail to respond to CIEE communication - check your email frequently!
Change or leave your job without approval from CIEE
Break any local, state, and federal laws
For more serious violations, your status may be Terminated. If your status is terminated your CIEE
sponsorship and insurance are ended. You are no longer legally allowed to work in the United States and
you are required to return home immediately, unless you are being held by officials pending a trial in the
United States court system. Being terminated will have a negative impact on future attempts to obtain a
U.S. visa or enter the United States. You may be terminated if you break these program regulations:
You are convicted of a serious crime in the United States
You do not register for SEVIS within 10 days of your arrival in the United States
You work at a job without CIEE approval
You do not report a change of housing
You do not complete the CIEE email survey every 30 days
Take Action:
I have read and understand these rules.
CIEE Monthly Survey
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All CIEE Work & Travel USA participants are required to complete a survey every 30 days. We’ll send
the survey by email, and you will have 10 days to complete it. If you have trouble completing the survey
online, call CIEE at 888-268-6245 and we’ll be happy to help you complete it by phone.
Failure to complete the survey on time can lead to termination of your program.
Be sure to check your email regularly so you don’t miss any messages from CIEE. In addition to surveys,
we will share news of upcoming events in your area and other important information.
Take action:
I promise to check my email often and complete CIEE surveys on time.
Laws in the United States
U.S. Laws
As a cultural ambassador, you represent your own country and all exchange visitors to the United States
while you are here. If you break a law, your program may end and you could be sent home. Unlike in
most countries, in the United States, laws vary from state to state and even city to city. To avoid
unfortunate mistakes, it is important to know and follow the local laws in the town or city where you are
living.
Alcohol and Legal Drinking Age
You must be 21 years old to drink alcohol legally in the United States. You could be arrested or fined if
you are under 21 and found with alcohol. Do not drive if you have been drinking alcohol, and do not get in
a car with a driver who has been drinking.
Drugs
If you are caught with illegal drugs, you could be arrested and charged with breaking the law.
Shoplifting
Stealing things from stores, or shoplifting, is illegal and can result in jail time or criminal charges.
If You Are Arrested
If you are arrested, you will be allowed one phone call. Make that call to CIEE at 888-268-6245.
Please know that breaking a U.S. law or being arrested can affect your employment, as well as your
ability to participate in the CIEE Work & Travel USA program. If you have questions or issues contact
CIEE immediately.
For more information on U.S. laws and program rules, please visit our website.
Take Action:
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I have read and understand this information.
Getting Around
Getting Around
To limit expenses, use public transit whenever you can, and walk or bike as much as possible. Choose a
place to live that’s within walking or biking distance of your job and shopping, and you will eliminate
almost all daily transportation costs. Plus, you’ll get more exercise and meet more people.
To stay safe, always walk against traffic (in the opposite direction cars travel) or on sidewalks. Ride
your bicycle with traffic, in the same direction cars travel.
Safe Bicycling Guidelines
In America, bicyclists are considered vehicle operators and are required to follow and obey traffic laws,
including stop signs and right of way. To stay safe on your bike, always:
Wear a bicycle helmet.
Wear brightly colored clothing.
Install reflectors and lights on the front and back of the bicycle, and always use lights at night.
Use hand signals at intersections to let cars know where you’re going.
For more information about walking, biking, and public transportation in the United States, please visit our
website.
Take Action:
Watch the video, and think about how you’ll get around safely in the United States.
Emergencies
Emergencies
If you have an emergency and need immediate assistance or care from safety officials, dial 911 from any
telephone. Only use this number in true emergencies. In some cities, you could be fined if you abuse
this service. Examples of emergencies include:
A fire.
You or someone you know is in immediate danger.
A crime in process.
A traffic accident that results in injury.
Call CIEE Anytime
The CIEE team is here for you when there’s a problem, with a 24-hour emergency support line. Call us at
888-268-6245 if any of the following happen:
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You are the victim of a crime.
You are arrested.
You are involved in a car accident.
You are in a situation that involves police, immigration, or media coverage.
You are evicted from housing.
You experience emotional distress or need urgent counseling for any reason.
For all other concerns, call CIEE during our regular hours at 888-268-6245 or send us an email.
Take Action
Give one example of when you should call 911.
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CIEE Health Insurance
CIEE Health Insurance
Unlike some other countries, Americans are not all automatically covered by health insurance. In the
States, if you can pay for medical care, you are expected to do so.
For most students, CIEE includes health insurance as a program benefit**. When you see a doctor, you
will be asked for your insurance identification (ID) card, and you may have to pay a small fee, called a
copayment or copay. To see the approximate costs of copays, review the Summary of Benefits
document here.
CIEE has a special team of insurance experts to help you understand your policy. Have a question
about your insurance plan? Send an email to [email protected] anytime.
What’s Not Covered by CIEE Health Insurance
Your CIEE insurances does not cover the following:
Routine examinations, vaccinations, regular dental treatment, and vision services. (Take care of
these needs before you travel!)
Expenses related to pre-existing conditions. If you have a chronic disease such as asthma or
diabetes, make sure your health insurance at home covers you for costs related to these
conditions while you’re in the United States.
If you require medical attention that is not emergency care, contact CIEE as soon as possible. We can
help you find a doctor who accepts your insurance, or you can go to the CIEE insurance website and use
our doctor finder tool.
**Students who purchased their Work & Travel USA program in Ireland have a separate insurance plan.
Contact CIEE or your international representative for more information.
Take Action:
Why is it important to visit your doctor before you travel to the United States?
Buttons:
To make sure I am healthy.
To make sure I have enough prescription medication.
Because routine visits are not covered by CIEE health insurance.
All of the above.
Answer: All of the above.
Healthcare Resources
We hope you won’t experience a medical emergency in the United States, but if you do, we’re here to
help, and we need to know. Please call 888-268-6245 right away in case of emergency.
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Review the attached document and save it for reference.
The video below includes advice from other CIEE Work & Travel USA participants on how to take care of
yourself and stay healthy while you’re in the United States.
Take Action
I have reviewed and understand this document.
Exploring the United States
To make the most of your visit and learn as much as you can about American culture, we encourage you to get involved. If you’re confused about the game of baseball, don’t just watch it on TV. Go to a game with a co-worker and find out for yourself why it’s America’s favorite sport! Never helped a neighbor in need? Try a volunteer experience offered by your employer, CIEE or provided in your community.
CIEE and your employer will provide many opportunities to explore the area near you and the greater United States, and to make new friends. Don’t miss our local Connect USA events, and apply to attend the Civic Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.! Here’s a list of more ideas that will help you discover America.
Your time here also gives you opportunities to share your culture. You could be the first person from your country that your American coworkers, roommates and customers meet! Think about how you want to represent your country. Listen to these CIEE participants see how they shared their cultures with new friends.
Take Action:
Watch the video, and tell us, how will you share your culture with new friends?
Section 6 – Working in the United States
The U.S. Workplace
The U.S. Workplace
Working in the United States may be different from what you might expect or know. With a positive
outlook and willingness to be part of a team, your time at work can be rich and rewarding. Your attitude
can help you look forward to going to work every day, and help you build friendships with co-workers.
Every workplace is different. While most are relaxed and informal, we expect CIEE employers and their
employees to always be professional. Here are some easy ways to succeed at work:
Arrive on time.
Be friendly, polite, and respectful.
Do your best at every task that’s given to you.
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Dress appropriately, and wear your uniform properly if one is required.
Customer service is valued highly in the United States – and we’re known for it worldwide. If you’re not
sure about a task or procedure at work, ask your manager for help, and make sure you’re meeting
expectations.
Take Action:
What are your questions about working in America?
Challenges at Work
Challenges at Work
CIEE works with America’s best seasonal employers. Still, sometimes problems come up at work, often
because of simple misunderstandings. You may think an employer doesn’t notice your good work, or
treats you unfairly, for example. If this happens, talk with your supervisor calmly, professionally, and
constructively. If you need advice, we’re here to help at CIEE.
Please call CIEE immediately at 888-268-6245 if you experience any of the following:
SEXUAL HARASSMENT OR RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
These are serious matters in the United States, and there are laws to protect workers.
LAYOFFS OR FIRINGS
Employees could be laid off work if business is slow, meaning your employer needs fewer workers. If
you’re fired, your employer is probably unhappy with your performance. To avoid this, handle any issues
that come up before they become major problems. Talk to your employer or call CIEE if you have
questions, or you think work isn’t going smoothly. We’re here to help.
Take Action:
If work isn’t going well, what should you do?
Before You Leave Your Job
Before You Leave Your Job
If you are having issues at work, first try to resolve them with your employer. If this doesn’t help and you
want to leave your job, you must contact CIEE first. If you quit or change your job without approval from
CIEE, you risk withdrawal from CIEE Work & Travel USA program, and having to leave the country. In
addition, your new job must be approved by CIEE before you begin work.
For more information on leaving your job, please visit the CIEE website.
Take Action:
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OK
Section 7 – Traveling in America, and Returning Home
More Sights, More Opportunities for Discovery
Planning Your Adventures
One of the great things about CIEE Work & Travel USA is the opportunity to explore this amazing country
on your own. Go anywhere you like – the only limits are your imagination, your budget, and the date you
need to be home. Remember that if you want to take a short trip while still at your job, you will need to
ask your employer for time off ahead of time.
You may travel in the United States for up to 30 days after your DS-2019 expires. Plan your travel dates
before you come to the United States, and make sure you have insurance coverage for this period. You
cannot change your travel or departure dates after you arrive in the United States. You must also be
back home in time for the start of school.
Visit the CIEE website for travel tips and information about traveling outside the United States during your
program.
Take Action:
Where would you like to go after you finish your job?
Completing Your Job
Completing Your Job
Finish your job on a positive note. This is the best way to leave a good impression, which helps others
who want to visit the United States. Make sure you stay through the end date you and your employer
agreed to at the start of your program. Remember that if you do a great job, your employer may ask you
to come back next year!
Your Social Security status
If you do not have a Social Security number one month before your DS-2019 ends, please visit a local
Social Security Administration office and check on the status of your application. You do not have to visit
the same office where you filed your application. Find a Social Security office.
Your final paycheck
Collect your final paycheck. If your employer cannot give it to you before you depart, make sure your
employer knows how to mail it to you or deposit it in your bank account.
Contact information
Keep your employer’s contact information in case you need to contact them after you return home.
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Take Action:
I understand.
Moving Out of Housing
Moving Out of Housing
Know your lease agreement, so you understand how much – if any – notice you must give your landlord
before you move out. Leave the apartment clean and in the same good condition as when you moved in,
to help ensure you get the entire security deposit back.
If you’re staying in housing provided by your employer, follow the same guidelines.
Take Action:
OK
Taxes
Filing Your Tax Return
You are required to pay federal, state, and sometimes local taxes. You may also be entitled to a refund of
some or all of the taxes you paid while you worked in the United States.
To file taxes, you will need a W2 form from your employer. This form will not be available until February or
March of next year, and will be mailed to you. For more information on filing a U.S. tax return, visit
the CIEE website.
Take Action:
OK
Staying Connected with CIEE
Join the CIEE Alumni Global Network
When you complete your CIEE Work & Travel USA program, you’ll be one of more than 300,000 students
who have enriched their lives by experiencing a different culture. You can also join the CIEE Alumni
Global Network, a diverse and dynamic community that makes it easy to connect with active people in
nearly every field of industry and country on Earth.
CIEE Work Travelers have the option to join the CIEE Work & Travel USA Ambassadors group on
LinkedIn. In this virtual space, our alumni can connect with each other and form new relationships with
potential colleagues and mentors, share ideas, and discuss the impact of international exchange.
To learn more about the benefits of joining, visit the CIEE Global Alumni Network website.
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Keep in touch with us by following us on Facebook and Instagram!
Take Action:
OK
Thank You!
Thank you for completing the CIEE Work & Travel USA Orientation. We are thrilled that you’ve decided to spend your summer with us, and we’re confident that you’re ready to soak up all America has to offer, explore, make new friends, and gain work experience. We want you to make the most of it, so please get in touch anytime.
Check out the experiences of other #CIEEWorkTravelers, and get excited for an unforgettable summer! Take Action: Finish
