Learn what it's like.
It is one thing to read about cultural exchange programs, and it is another thing to hear from those who experienced it. Going out of the Philippines to a foreign country is definitely a big step to take, and understandably so. Here is an inside peek into how life is like for individuals who have undergone the J-1 visa program and worked as paid interns in the United States:
Carmina Andrea L. Cusi
Growing up, I have been surrounded with family members who enjoyed cooking as much as they enjoyed eating. Sharing and preparing meals have always been one of my fondest memories of my family, especially of my Dad, and this was what got me into taking up a degree in Culinary Arts.
Upon graduating from my school, Academy for International Culinary Arts (AICA), I worked in Shangri-la Mactan, but I thought I needed to learn more and delve deeper into the course I took. The J-1 Internship was introduced to me AICA, my school, as agencies would come over and promote this opportunity to us students.
I applied back in 2013 and got to attend an internship in Vail, Colorado, where I was able to experience (mostly) German and American Culture and cuisines, this opened my eyes to the different kinds of food I have yet to cook and eat.
I got to work as if I was really part of the line and not just an intern. I was assigned in the Garde Manger section, but from time to time, I would be placed in the hot kitchen and banquets.
I got to meet friends from all over the US, Argentina, Philippines and I was even roommates with a German girl for a time, and we all got to share our cultures and native cuisines with each other.
J-1 has opened so many doors for me when I came back home. I became more experimental and adventurous with the food I make now for my business.
I would definitely recommend this opportunity to anyone who is open to learn, not just in their line of work, but to learn about life and living, independently, in a different country, as well, all these while earning and getting to see beautiful places.
Karl Zulueta
I took up Culinary Arts at the Institute of Culinary Arts-De La Salle in the year 2013-2014. I’ve always enjoyed cooking at home and thought, “why not take up a course in this?”
I applied for J-1 to experience working in another country and explore and do some sightseeing at the same time. An agency partnered with our school helped me out in the application and applying for a job, at that time there were openings for line cook jobs in Florida and New York, and I got to choose which one I preferred. I chose to be stationed in the bustling and vibrant NYC!
I was able to earn enough to support myself while abroad and bring back savings, too. I worked at Le District at Liberty St., New York, a Michelin Star Restaurant. There I got to work in different departments like the Grill Section, Garde Manger and in the Commissary. It was a really good experience.
I loved the diverse environment. I had a Filipina for a Sous Chef and a French Director for the entire establishment. I made good friends out of my colleagues and acquaintances and learned from all of them.
I would recommend those who wish to participate in a global exchange program to apply for the J-1 program. My stint in the US is definitely one for the books. I love the experience. There may have been hard and challenging instances, but these pushed me to become more independent and more hardworking. Icing on the cake: I became better at my craft while earning more than I can in the food service community in the Philippines.
Embark on your J-1 journey
Raring to start your own journey of self-discovery and improvement? Write your own story about your global training experience. Take that first step and contact Grant Visa Consultancy to know more about how you can apply for a J-1 visa as a Philippine passport holder.