United Studies SWT and Camp Counselor Program

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United Studies SWT and Camp Counselor Program United Studies is Designated by the U.S. Department of State as an Official BridgeUSA J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor. summer camps across the country.

Our Work & Travel and Camp Programs allow participants to work and experience cultural exchange for up to 4 months. International Summer Work & Travel Visitors experience the U.S. for up to 4 months while earning wages to help with day-to-day expenses during their summer break. International Camp Counselors experience the U.S. for up to 4 months while earning wages and leading others at U.S.

“The fear you feel before you leave is not a sign you shouldn’t—it’s just the price of doing something that matters.” ✨🌲...
10/11/2026

“The fear you feel before you leave is not a sign you shouldn’t—it’s just the price of doing something that matters.” ✨🌲

Meet Maria Jose from Mexico, who spent an unforgettable summer working as a camp counselor in Maine!

She almost didn’t apply because going so far from home alone was terrifying. The first few days pushed her outside her comfort zone—until the community took her in and changed everything:
💛 Instant Community: "International and national staff welcome you as if you were always part of something amazing."
🤝 The Power of Camp People: "What got me through was a co-counselor who took me under their wing and a camper who made me laugh when I was about to cry."
🌎 Cultural Exchange: "Teaching them about my home while learning so much about theirs... I now have people on the other side of the world I can call family."
🚀 Personal & Professional Growth: "I came home more independent, patient, and learned real leadership—staying calm under pressure and communicating clearly."
💬 Her Advice to You: "To anyone back home hesitating: just go. I came home with more confidence, skills, and friends... it was worth every scary second."

Are you ready to discover what you’re capable of next summer?👉 Explore the J-1 Camp Counselor Program and start your journey at www.unitedstudies.org!

When you sign up to be a camp counselor, you know you're signing up for a busy summer. What you don’t realize is just ho...
10/09/2026

When you sign up to be a camp counselor, you know you're signing up for a busy summer. What you don’t realize is just how fast complete strangers turn into family—or how unforgettable your days off can be.

Meet Darrion from Jamaica.

This summer, he traded island life for the camp trails, making a genuine impact on his campers and taking full advantage of the American adventure. Here is what he had to say about his time on camp:
“It was a wonderful experience. I really enjoyed working with the campers, building meaningful relationships, and being part of a new environment. My favorite experience outside of camp was visiting the lighthouse and beach in Montauk. I also really enjoyed spending time in New York City and seeing the skyscrapers, scenery, and busy city life. These experiences were memorable because I got to explore new places and experience parts of American culture that I had never seen before. I can’t remember one specific moment that stands out above all the others. Instead, I will always remember the many moments I shared with the campers and counselors, from participating in activities and games to talking, laughing, and spending time together. Those everyday experiences and the relationships I built with the campers and counselors are what made my time at camp special.”

From ocean views at Montauk Point to the energy of NYC—and every belly laugh in between—this is what cultural exchange is all about.

Thinking about your next summer? Stop watching other people live the adventure.

Head to www.unitedstudies.org to see where the J-1 Camp Counselor Program can take you.

Thinking about spending your summer working at an American summer camp? It’s easily one of the most rewarding, life-chan...
10/07/2026

Thinking about spending your summer working at an American summer camp? It’s easily one of the most rewarding, life-changing adventures you’ll ever have—making lifelong friends from across the globe, leading campfire songs, improving your English, and exploring the U.S. on your time off.

It’s also the hardest summer job you’ll ever love.

Before you pack your bags, we want you to have the real picture—not just the highlight reel. We put together our official guide, “Camp Life: The Real Story,” to break down everything you need to know before stepping foot on camp:

The Reality of Camp Life: 10–12 hour days, rustic shared cabins, rustic dining hall food, and limited Wi-Fi. (The trade-off? Starry skies, lake sunsets, and an instant camp family.)

Two Ways to Work: The difference between being on the front lines as a Camp Counselor vs. keeping the engine running behind the scenes on Support Staff.

The First Two Weeks: Culture shock, jet lag, homesickness, and how to push through until the routine clicks.

Money, Perks & Support: What’s covered (meals, housing, medical insurance, 24/7 support) versus what you need to plan ahead for.

Whether you’re ready to teach activities on the lake or be part of the kitchen crew, transparency is key to having the best summer of your life.

Check out the full guide here: https://unitedstudies.sharepoint.com/:p:/s/usse/IQCRJ_PUq8PCT6MblGjYPiAjAYU4EkaXLOasPWzbbjc6qqs?e=78TGRc

Ready to take the leap? Email your details to [email protected] or connect with your home country partner agency to get started!

Find safe study abroad programs with real support and caring guidance. We help connect international talent with schools, workplaces, and host families.

“My experience thus far is amazing. Met some amazing people, my campers also, and the leadership team here at camp is be...
10/02/2026

“My experience thus far is amazing. Met some amazing people, my campers also, and the leadership team here at camp is beyond professional. I would definitely relive this summer at camp.” 💚🇯🇲

Meet Paula, who traveled from Jamaica to spend her summer serving as a camp counselor at a special needs camp in New York!

Working at an adaptive camp takes dedication, patience, and a truly generous heart. Paula brought that energy every single day, making a lasting difference in the lives of her campers while building memories and professional bonds she’ll carry for years to come.

If you want a summer experience that challenges you, expands your world, and changes lives, we’re ready for you. Applications are officially open for Summer 2027!

👉 Join the journey: www.unitedstudies.org

Work hard, explore far, and build a global family. 🌲💛Meet Ivanna, who traveled all the way from Colombia to spend her su...
09/30/2026

Work hard, explore far, and build a global family. 🌲💛

Meet Ivanna, who traveled all the way from Colombia to spend her summer serving on support staff at an Arkansas summer camp! Behind every unforgettable camp season is a dedicated crew making magic happen—and making time for classic road trips and new adventures along the way.

Exchange programs aren't a job; they're a life-changing adventure.

Where will your summer take you? Join us for Summer 2027 as a Camp Counselor or Support Staff member!

🔗 Apply today at www.unitedstudies.org

09/28/2026

Traveling halfway across the world to spend a summer in the United States can feel daunting, but as Olivia, a 22-year-old counselor from South Africa, discovered, the right camp community makes all the difference. Placed at a camp in New Hampshire through United Studies, Olivia traded initial travel nerves for three months of impactful mentorship, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable moments—from guiding campers through new skills to watching the sunset behind the mountains on a lake boat ride.

Cultural exchange at summer camp fosters global perspectives, builds leadership, and creates cross-cultural bonds that stay with participants and campers long after the summer ends.

Shape the Summer with United Studies

Whether you are looking to travel, recruit international talent, or collaborate globally, United Studies provides seamless J-1 Visa sponsorship and full-spectrum support.

Connect with our team to explore opportunities for the upcoming camp season at www.unitedstudies.org.

Day off, Maine harbor views, and unforgettable memories. 🇺🇸 Daniel from Colombia is making the most of his J-1 exchange ...
09/26/2026

Day off, Maine harbor views, and unforgettable memories. 🇺🇸 Daniel from Colombia is making the most of his J-1 exchange experience!

Whether you want to join as an Exchange Visitor, welcome global talent as a Host Camp, or collaborate as an International Partner, United Studies is here to help you get started.

👉 Visit www.unitedstudies.org to connect!

Helmets on, smiles big, and high-flying fun ahead! 🧗‍♀️💙✨Shoutout to Betzabe, who traveled all the way from Mexico 🇲🇽 to...
09/24/2026

Helmets on, smiles big, and high-flying fun ahead! 🧗‍♀️💙✨

Shoutout to Betzabe, who traveled all the way from Mexico 🇲🇽 to serve as J-1 Summer Work Travel Support Staff at camp in beautiful Maine! Whether keeping camp operations humming smoothly behind the scenes or gearing up to tackle the climbing wall with friends, Betzabe brought incredible energy, enthusiasm, and teamwork to her season. 🌲🧗‍♀️

Support staff members are the backbone of camp, and moments like these capture the pure joy of making international friends, conquering new challenges, and sharing unforgettable adventures!

Ready to step out of your comfort zone and spend your summer in the U.S.? Or looking to welcome hard-working, enthusiastic international support staff to your camp family?

✨ Join our global family today! ✨
🔗 Participants & Host Camps, visit: www.unitedstudies.org

"It’s been a great experience, the daily activities and events are a joy to be a part of... would definitely do it again...
09/22/2026

"It’s been a great experience, the daily activities and events are a joy to be a part of... would definitely do it again!" — Nicola 💙✨

Few things are more rewarding than bringing joy, energy, and dedication to a special needs camp community! Meet Nicola, who traveled all the way from Jamaica 🇯🇲 to serve as a J-1 Camp Counselor. ☀️

From laughing through fun daily events to making lifelong friends and making a meaningful impact every single day, Nicola's summer was filled with pure heart and unforgettable moments. 💛

Looking to make a real difference, experience a new culture, and have the summer of a lifetime in the U.S.? Or is your camp ready to welcome compassionate, inspiring international leaders to your staff team?

✨ Join our global family today! ✨
🔗 Participants & Host Camps, visit: www.unitedstudies.org

"It’s amazing, I love everything here and I’ve made amazing friendships and I’ve met a lot of people that support me!!" ...
09/20/2026

"It’s amazing, I love everything here and I’ve made amazing friendships and I’ve met a lot of people that support me!!" — Isabella 💖✨

This is what cultural exchange is all about! Meet Isabella, who traveled all the way from Mexico 🇲🇽 to spend her summer in Arkansas. From exploring stunning local sights like Thorncrown Chapel to building a supportive community and making lifelong friends, Isabella’s summer has been packed with unforgettable moments! 🌲🏛️❤️

Moments like these remind us how powerful it is to connect across borders, share cultures, and build lasting friendships.

Ready to create your own summer story in the U.S.? Or interested in welcoming inspiring international participants to your team or camp community?

✨ Join our global family today! ✨
🔗 Participants & Host Camps, visit: www.unitedstudies.org

Address

100 Ridgeway Street
Hot Springs, AR
71901

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