| How can I find a job? |
| The Job Directory lists hundreds of employers across America who have hired BUNACers before and are keen to do so again. It also provides practical advice on working and living in America. |
| Can I wait until I arrive in America before looking for work? |
| Yes but we would advise you to do some research beforehand. Consider where you want to live in America, what type of job you are going to look for, how are you going to begin your job search, what will you do if you do not find work within a week? |
| Can I work with friends? |
| It depends on the employer. Most Job Directory employers, particular those looking to hire lots of participants, will be willing to hire friends together. Just be prepared to be flexible and persevere and mention if you are willing to do different jobs within the same company. |
| How much will I earn? |
| It varies according to where you work and what you do, but the average wage is around $8 per hour. |
| Can I find a career related job? |
Yes, and you may find the following advice useful.
- University contacts – your university lecturers, tutors and careers advisers may have specific contacts in the field you are looking for in America
- Friends/family in America – should be able to provide you with more detailed local information and specific companies worth applying to
- Speculative applications – a Google search along the lines of ‘law firms in Chicago’ or similar should yield a considerable number of results. It’s easy to prepare a resume and covering letter, which you could send to dozens of companies
- Internship Directories – these feature companies who have standard internship programmes and take on a set number of trainees each year. Try Internships for Dummies, Peterson’s Internships, or the Internships Bible. All should be available in your careers library or public library
- Highlight any relevant experience and selling points in your resume and covering letter – for example if you are willing to do an unpaid internship, or can be flexible with dates mention this
- If you take an unpaid internship, you can still look for part-time paid work to support yourself through the visa you get through Work America!
- Be prepared to persevere and don’t give up if you get a few negative responses. If all else fails you could always apply for some Job Directory jobs – they will still stand out on your CV!
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| How long is my visa valid for? |
| Your visa is valid for a maximum of four months between May 1st and October 10th. So if, for example, you entered the US on June 1st, your visa would expire on September 30th. If you enter the US on or after June 10th, your visa would expire on October 10th. In any case, however, the effective programme dates are those which appear on your DS-2019. It is not possible to extend this visa.
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| I do not have a UK passport. Will this affect my application? |
| Possibly. Download the overseas passport holder information sheet for more information.
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| Is there a non-student version of the programme?
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| Unfortunately not. You may want to consider one of our other programmes, or check the US embassy website for details on other visas.
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