U.S. Department of State Grants Authorization to Talent Connect Inc. for J-1 Visa Intern and Trainee Exchange Programs
Monica Ferchi, the founder and responsible officer of Talent Connect Inc., is deeply committed to expanding access to U.S.-based, skills-focused exchange programs for Romanian students and professionals. Based in the United States, Talent Connect Inc. has been officially designated by the U.S. Department of State as a sponsor for the J-1 Visa Intern and Trainee Programs, which aim to promote cultural exchange and educational training rather than displace American workers.
The J-1 programs offer structured hospitality training and cultural exchange experiences for international students and professionals with relevant educational backgrounds and work experience, emphasising both technical skills and essential soft skills for success in the U.S. hospitality industry.
For J-1 Interns, eligibility includes being enrolled students or recent graduates (within 12 months of graduation) from a post-secondary institution, having a minimum of 12 months of hospitality experience, especially in Food & Beverage service, being aged typically between 18 and 32 years old, having good conversational English skills, and possessing a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining after the program end date.
J-1 Trainees, on the other hand, must have graduated from a post-secondary institution more than 12 months ago, have at least 1 to 2 years of work experience in the hotel industry, especially in the same position for which they apply, or have 5 or more years of work experience outside the USA in the same position. Age requirements are similar to those for J-1 Interns.
Both programs require study in hospitality, generally with a minimum of 6 months of full-time college or university study in a relevant field. Participants typically participate in 3, 6, or 12-month rotations in frontline roles such as Guest Services, Housekeeping, or Food & Beverage. They engage in rotational job shadowing across different departments to gain broader exposure. Each participant executes a meaningful project and presents results to property leadership. The program involves on-the-job learning, supported by training materials and mentorship from industry leaders. Opportunities exist for networking and professional development within the hospitality industry.
Participants gain real-life experience and training in key frontline hospitality positions, develop soft skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and leadership under the fast-paced American service standards, and are exposed to diverse cultures both among guests and colleagues, fostering cross-cultural understanding. Enhanced career development opportunities, potentially leading to future visas or employment, constructive feedback and coaching to foster professional growth, mentorship from experienced hospitality leaders, and the program serving as a launchpad for long-term career success by building both technical and interpersonal skills highly valued in the hospitality industry are some of the benefits offered by these programs.
Host organizations must provide proper training and supervision to meet program goals. Visa applicants should ensure compliance with program rules and have valid documentation. Talent Connect Inc. continues to empower emerging leaders through these programs, strengthening global ties and supporting the U.S. Department of State's mission to promote mutual understanding through international exchange and public diplomacy. For more information, visit www.talentconnectinc.com or contact [email protected].
The J-1 programs, sponsored by Talent Connect Inc., offer structured business training and cultural exchange experiences in the hospitality industry for international students and professionals, including education and self-development in relevant fields. These programs aim to provide real-life experience and training in key frontline hospitality positions, fostering soft skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and leadership, while also offering opportunities for networking and professional development in the education-and-self-development sector.
