Advice from our participants

“If things with your American employer reach boiling point, go to the sponsor organization that issued your DS-2019 first. Remember that — it's what they're there for.”

“Get an American driver's license and you'll find out what the real America is. And the States are great — but Canada and Mexico are superb too; you can often arrange visas for a side trip during your travel month.”

“Your first paycheck comes after two, sometimes four weeks. Plan your landing money for that gap — transport to the employer, housing deposit, food — and you'll never feel poor in America.”

“In big cities, don't wander through parks alone at night — especially New York and Miami — and never leave bags unattended. Not just because they might vanish: someone may decide you left a bomb.”

“The most convenient way to bring your earnings home is a bank transfer between your US and home accounts — a $20–40 fee beats carrying cash. And confirm your return flight with the airline a few days before flying.”