Encouraging Cultural Exchange

Cultural exchange is one of the most important aspect of hosting an international intern, trainee, or professional. Host organizations can encourage cultural exchange by inviting participants to join in all organization events, by providing recommendations for things to do, places to eat, and sights to see outside of work, and by being flexible about time off so that international participants have the opportunity to travel. The U.S. is a big, beautiful, and diverse country; help your international participant experience that by providing recommendations of places to go!

CIEE Can Help, Too

CIEE is here to help you provide the best possible experience for your international intern, trainee, or professional. If you are looking for suggestions on how to provide more cultural exchange opportunities, please contact us. We are happy to provide recommendations.

You may also want to check out our online resources, which include:

Culture Guide USA
This monthly guide helps international interns, trainees, and professionals learn more about American culture and traditions; it also includes interesting facts about everything from holidays to government, as well as information about beautiful places like our national parks.

Our Facebook page
The Facebook page for all CIEE J-1 Professional Exchange Programs is a great place to learn about and share cultural exchange opportunities, as well as stories and pictures. We even host contests throughout the year that make sharing worth it!

For Interns and Trainees: Private Facebook Groups
Our Internship USA and Career Training USA Facebook groups give current and past CIEE participants the chance to connect with each other and to share their experiences and advice. Share these links with your international interns and trainees; there is a wealth of knowledge and insight to be gained.