Orientation & Training: Getting You Ready for Camp
Everyone at InterExchange wants to make sure that you have a great summer. Our multi-step orientation process helps us find you a great job placement, and helps you prepare for the experience of working in an American camp.
In-Country Interview and Orientation
Your first orientation is part of the application process for the program. An InterExchange representative, or “cooperator” in your home country will conduct an initial interview and orientation. The purpose of this session is to give you an overview of the program and help you get an idea of what it will be like to work at an American summer camp. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and get more details about the program, and the cooperator will be to get to know about you. This helps us make the best match between you and our participating camps.
Orientation in New York City
This orientation takes place right before you go to your camp. You'll fly in to New York City and stay overnight in a hostel. (The cost of the hostel is included in your program fee). The next morning, an InterExchange Camp USA representative will greet you at the hostel and conduct an orientation session. Topics covered will include:
- J-1 Visa paperwork
- Obtaining a Social Security card
- Taxes
- SEVIS information
- Information about U.S. culture
- Cultural adjustment issues
- Post-camp travel
Training at Camp
Once you arrive at your camp, you'll receive another orientation, which usually lasts three to five days. Each camp runs their orientation sessions differently, but no matter what the format, it will help prepare you to do a great job.
Apply now for more information & to see if there is a cooperator in your country.
Already have a job? Learn about the Direct Placement Program.
What is an International Cooperator?
International cooperators are independent individuals or agencies based in countries outside the U.S. InterExchange works with a wide network of cooperators in order to recruit the best candidates for camp jobs. They’re your first point of contact when you apply to the Placement Program. Your cooperator will pre-screen your application and may invite you to an interview and orientation session. All participants seeking placement must go through an International cooperator. Direct Placement particpants may go through a cooperator if there is one in their home country for no extra fee, but do not need to.
What Our Participants Say
"I want to thank you for making my trip a success and for being part of my experience. I have learned a lot at camp. I have learned to touch people's lives, I have learned to express myself and come out of my shell, and I have learned how to make a difference in people's lives. One camper's family thanked me for changing their grandson's life after camp and told me how happy and different he was after camp. That was when I realized that I have achieved something that I will never trade for anything in life."
~ Thabo from South Africa
