The Work and Travel program offers university students the opportunity to work and experience cultural exchange abroad. However, to successfully participate and get the most out of the experience, selecting the right job start and end dates is crucial. These dates should be carefully chosen, taking into account both the student’s academic schedule and the employer’s needs. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when selecting job start and end dates in the Work and Travel program.
- Alignment with the Academic Calendar
The first and foremost factor to consider when choosing job start and end dates is the student’s academic calendar. The university class schedule, exam dates, and the duration of the summer break are key elements that determine when students can participate in the Work and Travel program. In Turkey, many universities complete their spring semester exams in early June, so students often aim to start their Work and Travel job between mid-June and early July. However, this can vary from one university to another. Students must choose their job start date carefully, taking into account final exams and the possibility of attending summer school. Similarly, the date the student needs to return to school will determine the job end date. The program typically ends in September, but some universities may start classes in early or mid-September. Therefore, students should plan their return dates and job end dates to align with the start of the academic year.
- Employer Requirements
Students participating in the Work and Travel program should also consider the needs of the employers. Most employers in the U.S. require workers during the tourism season, which usually runs from mid-June to September. Students should select their job start and end dates based on the timeframe required by the employer. Employers often prefer workers who can commit to a longer period, so determining how long you can work may give you an advantage in securing a job. Some employers may have high demand at the beginning of the season, while others may need workers until the very end of the season. It is beneficial for students to understand these needs and plan their job start and end dates accordingly.
- Visa and Travel Planning
The J-1 visa required for the Work and Travel program plays a significant role in determining your U.S. entry and exit dates. The timing of your visa application process, how long it takes to receive the visa, and the earliest date you can enter the U.S. can directly affect your job start and end dates. Travel planning is another critical factor. Booking your flights according to your job start and end dates ensures a smooth travel experience. Consider factors like the cost of flights. It is also recommended to arrive in the U.S. a few days before your job start date to settle in, and to leave a few days after your job end date to transition back to university life smoothly.
- Cultural Experience and Travel Time
The Work and Travel program is not limited to working; it also offers a great opportunity to explore and experience the U.S. Students who wish to stay and travel for a few weeks after their job ends should factor this into their plans. Typically, participants are allowed to stay in the U.S. for up to 30 days after their job ends. This time can be used for traveling and cultural experiences. However, it is important to balance this with your return to school and ensure that both your finances and academic obligations are accounted for.
- Physical and Mental Fatigue
A long work experience can be physically and mentally exhausting for students. Especially towards the end of the season, the workload may increase in tourist-heavy areas. When choosing your job end date, it’s important to ensure that you have enough time to rest and recharge before returning to school. Planning a small vacation after your job ends can give you the chance to both explore the U.S. and return home feeling refreshed.
- Responsibility to Your Employer
When you participate in the Work and Travel program, remember that your employer has made plans based on your commitment. Ending your job earlier than agreed upon can disrupt your employer’s staffing plans and negatively affect the experience of other participants in the program. Therefore, when selecting your job end date, you should adhere to the terms of your contract and fulfill your responsibilities to your employer. If you must leave earlier than planned, inform your employer in advance and offer a solution that minimizes any disruption.
Choosing job start and end dates in the Work and Travel program is not just a matter of selecting dates on a calendar. It involves careful planning that considers academic, professional, and personal factors. Selecting the right dates will help you maximize your work experience and ensure that you have a fulfilling cultural experience as well.