Route J-1

Ah, the Big Apple. New York City is the world’s city, but it is also a truly American town. Young people all over the world dream of being a part of the bright lights and making their dreams come true. Eighty such young people on the J-1 international intern and trainee programs were recently there for the kickoff of our Route J-1 summer tour. If you would like to know more about opportunities with our J-1, check out our Intern or Trainee programs.

The State Department’s Under Secretary for Public Affairs and Public Diplomacy, Richard Stengel, conducted a program on leadership with the participants who represented 32 countries and three continents. We held the program at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations building. What a view! Above is an action shot of Under Secretary Stengel inspiring us all. Learn more about Rick Stengel and also follow him on Twitter @stengel.

As a native New Yorker, he spent time talking with our interns and trainees about his love for the city as well as his times with Nelson Mandela, his career in the media, and how the State Department approaches public affairs and public diplomacy.

We asked the participants to talk about what has been the most impactful aspect of their program here.  Several – and I mean several – people spoke about how, as interns, they have been able to pitch new ideas to their bosses. And their bosses have told them to go for it! Many commented on how their lack of experience would make such conversations impossible in their home countries. Others commented that it would only be possible after gaining experience over a much longer time span. They noted the dynamism of their workplaces, and the American spirit of action. What made me most happy – they all have American friends that they will keep in touch with when they go home. Enjoy the photos!

Categories: Participants