QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lots of questions buzzing through your head? This may help you out!
Q: Can I go if I’m not currently studying?
A: Unfortunately not! The program is ONLY open to full-time students who are enrolled in tertiary education (post matric)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: It’s quite expensive when I add everything up. Do most participants cover their costs?
A: Most do – but how much you make will ultimately depend on you and what you want to do with your time in the US. The vast majority of participants earn at least enough money to cover the costs they have outlaid to get to the USA and live there. If you work a second job, which most people do, and especially if you make tips, it’s relatively easy to make some very decent money. The amount you bring back to South Africa will of course be affected by how much you party, shop, travel or work when you’re over in the US!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: What will I do about somewhere to live?
A: Many employers offer some form of employee housing. Once you have secured a job, you should enquire about housing in the local area. Even if employers don’t offer housing, or employee housing is full, they can often point you in the right direction for the best affordable housing in the local area. Chat to your interviewer and to Chilli at your G.A.C session and we can give you the advice you need.
BEWARE! Housing in some very popular areas (Aspen is a prime example) can be extremely scarce and very expensive. Do your research prior to making a decision to head to a certain area.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: Can I go if I’ve just matriculated?
A: Unfortunately not. You need to have at least one year of tertiary (post secondary) education behind you. But if you’re headed to varsity next year, then you can apply now for next season. If you’re taking a gap year before varsity then the Summer Camp USA program is an excellent option.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: Is it possible to work at the same employer as friends?
A: Yes ABSOLUTELY! Many students go with groups of mates. Let Chilli know when you apply that you are part of a group and we’ll ensure that your applications are processed together. When you contact employers you can do this as a group. Most employers are happy to hire a group of friends together.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: How do I apply for my US visa?
A: You dont! Chilli will sort this all out for you! Following payment of your program fees we’ll request your DS-2019 visa sponsorship from the USA and gather the info from you necessary for us to complete your various visa application forms. Chilli will also book and pay for your US consulate appointment and submit your paperwork to the consulate ahead of time. You’ll just need to show up, smile, have your finger prints scanned and you’ll receive your passport back in 2-3 working days. Easy!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: Am I able to find a job before I leave?
A: Sure! The job hunt links we have supplied will help you with this, as will the list of employers mentioned on the ‘Do what where’ page. Get your CV together and start to send it out. Be aware that if you’re seeking employment at a ski resort they are unlikely to start hiring for the new seasons intake of staff until August or September at the earliest. If your dates of availability allow you to work for only a short period of time, you will likely be hired later in the season too.
Given the low unemployment rate in the US, and the number of staff that Ski resorts hire for the winter season, in most cases, its easy to find employment yourself or through Chillis National Team and the Independent Option is the right choice. We’ll guide you through this process at your G.A.C session.
Chillis placment opportunities will be profiled from July, so those are options too if you haven’t got time to do the search yourself.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: Am I required to take out travel insurance with Chilli Adventures?
A: Yes. Work and Travel insurance is provided to you as part of your program fees. It is a US State Department J1 visa requirement that your visa sponsor provide you with approved ‘AAA’ Graded insurance for the period of your visa. Your insurance includes medical, emergency, liability and baggage etc. If you have a pre-existing condition (have received medical care within the last 12 months) please contact your local office for advice as you may require additional coverage. If you would like to extend your insurance for further travels your local Chilli office can assist with coverage for up to two years.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: Do you have participants who have been on the program before that I could talk to?
A: Absolutely! Chilli Adventures have many past participants that we can put you in touch with to find out more first hand. Remember that your interviewer will be a past participant, and if you come to one of our info sessions around the country (click here) you will have a chance to hear stories from them and ask questions. Though optional, we strongly recommend that you attend one of these sessions to get a good idea about what the program is all about, what to expect, where to work, and the application processes etc.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: Is it OK if I go alone?
A: Yes no problem. Many participants apply alone, but then meet other participants as they go through the process. Its easy to meet fellow adventurers once you’re on the program, and you wont be alone for long! However, many people prefer to go solo, as it allows them to meet more new people and have the experience that they really want.
If you're worried about traveling alone, ask Chilli to put you in touch with others going from your varsity. Chillis Facebook group is also a great place to meet new friends to travel with, as well as get advise on where to head to.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back to top
|
