So what’s a “J-1” Internship?
J-1 Internship is the Internship program that aims to give foreign students and recent graduates the chance to develop their skills, whilst building up their insight into the US business practice & culture. These interns are expected to then share the cross-cultural and professional experience they’ve gained in the U.S. upon returning to their own countries.
How can a J-1 Internship help expand my hospitality knowledge?
Practical Experience
Many people learn the best by actually engaging in an activity, and everyone benefits through witnessing the many methods & theories learned in the class being put to work.
Whether it’s learning a few new recipes as a Chef or even discovering the many ways of dealing with customers. Practice in your actual field of interest will no-doubt increase your expertise & knowledge of the sector.
Greater Sense of Clarity
Interning effectively gives you the opportunity to “test-drive” a job, career path or company before deciding to commit to any form of full-time employment. They also allow you to decipher which aspects you do or don’t like about a specific role or work environment, and can help shape your future path.
Prepare for life after graduation
Internships put you on the front-line to dealing with real-world issues & situations, meaning that you’ll have the chance to solve them by applying skills and knowledge that you gained in the classroom.
Increase Self-Confidence
Working in an environment surrounded by professionals can aid you in the process of feeling more comfortable, confident and at-ease in the workplace. You’ll also develop technical & soft skills which may come of use at some point in the future, developing your confidence in your abilities & knowledge on how to handle certain tasks.
Expand Professional Network
Through meeting professionals working in your industry of interest, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, connect with new people and simply find out things from them that you didn’t know before. The people you engage with can be a great resource as you grow, learn and practice skills within your field.
In summary, gaining practical experience, developing a greater sense of clarity, finding ways to deal with real-world issues & tasks, along with expanding your professional network, will all go towards expanding your hospitality knowledge whilst you undertake your J-1 Internship.