Are you curious about the real-life experience of participating in a J1 visa program? Aspen Experience has helped many young professionals launch their careers in the hospitality industry through internship programs in the USA, including our student Alba.
Before embarking on her adventure, Alba was just like any other participant—filled with hopes and questions about what it truly means to join the J1 internship USA program. Having previously participated in several Work and Travel USA programs, Alba knew she wanted to take her experience to the next level by living and working in the United States.
As she graduated in 2021, she felt ready to embrace the challenge and immerse herself in American culture through a structured hospitality internship in the USA. Her journey began when her best friend joined the Aspen Experience J1 program USA. Inspired by her friend’s story, Alba signed up for an initial call and quickly felt excited and ready to take the next step.
The added bonus? She got hired by the same property as her friend, making the internship to USA transition even smoother. However, the path wasn’t without obstacles. Navigating the DS-2019 form process during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly challenging, as visa J1 USA issuances were temporarily halted in their home country. With patience and determination, Alba and her friend traveled to another country to secure their J1 visas, proving just how committed they were.
Dallas became her new home for a year, offering an incredible experience filled with personal and professional growth. Through the hospitality training program, Alba had the chance to develop key skills in customer service, teamwork, and adaptability—essential traits in the hospitality sector. By the end of her internship USA, Alba was offered a chance to return in a supervisory role.
To make that happen, she enrolled in a master’s program, which allowed her to participate in a second J1 internship in the USA. Looking back, Alba reflects on a journey full of memories, cultural exchange, and valuable lessons in both life and work.
Her incredible journey didn’t stop there. After completing her internships in USA, Alba joined Aspen Experience as a Marketing Specialist, where she now helps other aspiring exchange students USA navigate their own paths to success.
If you’re passionate about exploring new cultures and gaining international work experience, the J1 visa internship program with Aspen Experience is more than just a job—it’s a life-changing opportunity. Whether you’re dreaming of joining a hotel staff recruitment agency or entering a management training program in hotels, this program is designed to help you thrive.
It’s not just about interning in America—it’s about creating lifelong memories, growing through cultural exchange, and setting yourself up for a successful career in the hospitality job market.
