Before You Go
>Important Documents and Identification
All of your documents and identification must contain your current and correct personal information and may not be expired or contain misspelled information! Make two copies of your paperwork and identification documents and leave one copy with your parents or other emergency contact - make sure this is someone you can contact quickly if necessary.
>Set Up a US-based Email Account
We cannot send program information to email addresses based outside the U.S. (i.e. ".ru" or ".ca") We are only able to send emails to addresses ending in ".com" ".net" ".org" ".edu" and a handful of others. It is very easy to establish a U.S. email account. For more instructions, see our "U.S. Email" page.
>Orientation
Familiarize yourself with the orientation materials before you arrive in the U.S. This will help you prepare for what lies ahead and remind you of some important aspects of the program. After reviewing the information, complete the simple quiz at the end that lets us know you're ready to take on this new adventure.
>Travel Arrangements
Make sure you've got your flight booked and that you have arranged transportation from the airport to your temporary new home. Depending on where in the United States you choose to work, the transportation options from the airport will widely vary. Major cities have several options for mass transit including trains, subways and buses. Smaller cities and rural locations will have fewer options. Ensure you have adequate funds for your trip and have an emergency plan in place in the event you need to secure additional funds while in the United States.
>Housing and Transportation
You'll need to arrange for housing before you depart for the U.S. Your employer will probably provide you with some information or assistance in this matter. Research the area to ensure the location you choose is safe. You can speak with your employer or local law enforcement if you are unsure about a specific location. Use websites like Google Maps to determine the distance to your place of employment and research routes, distances, and times for walking, bicycling, or public transportation. Getting to and from work, traveling and taking advantage of cultural activities is essential to a good experience. Prior to your departure, verify that any required housing deposits have been received and confirm all previously agreed upon terms for your housing in writing. Once you are here, talk to your fellow employees, your employer, your neighbors and even the local police about areas to avoid in the city, places worthwhile visiting, and other transportation options for longer site-seeing trips.
>Contact Your Employer
Your employer is expecting you to start work on a certain date, to work specific hours and days, and to do the job assigned to you to the best of your abilities. Don't ruin your experience by letting them down! Contact your employer before you leave and let them know your travel schedule as well as your living arrangements. They can help you with last minute questions and will want to know where you might be should you fail to arrive as expected. Our full time staff is here to assist you in this process so let us know if you need help.
>See Your Doctor
We strongly suggest that you see a doctor for a full check-up before you begin your adventure. Find out if there are any health concerns that may affect your ability to work or travel. As some parts of the program are non-refundable after a certain point, it's up to you to make sure that your time and money are not wasted. Contact UNITED STUDIES and your employer immediately if something will keep you from beginning or completing the program.