Your day-to-day guide to working, exploring, and thriving in the USA
So, your J1 Visa is approved. Your bags are packed. Your adventure is about to begin… but what’s it really like to live and work in the USA for a year?
Spoiler alert: It’s fun, challenging, eye-opening, and probably one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.
Here’s what to expect when you’re living your best life in the States.
🛏️ Living Arrangements
If you’re going through IWH’s pre-arranged job placements, accommodation is sorted for you, usually close to your workplace, either on-site or just a short walk/bus away. These housing setups are shared, safe, and designed to help you settle in quickly with fellow international staff.
Expect:
- Furnished rooms
- Kitchen facilities
- Laundry and shared spaces
- Affordable rent deducted from your pay
“The place I lived had a gym, a pool, and the bus to work was only $1.75. It was super easy!” – Nemisha, Broadmoor Resort
💼 Work Life
Your job might be at a ski lodge in Colorado, a resort in Florida, or a hotel in the mountains. Wherever you land, expect to work around 30–40 hours per week, with time off to explore.
Common roles include:
- Front desk
- Waitstaff
- Housekeeping
- Lifeguard
- Café assistant
- Event staff
It’s hands-on work, but it’s also fun, social, and rewarding. You’ll learn a tonne and get used to American work culture quickly.
👫 Social Life & Making Friends
One of the best parts? The people. You’ll be working and living with other young travellers from all over the world: New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Europe, South America… It’s an instant community.
Expect to:
- Celebrate holidays together (yes, Thanksgiving and Halloween 🎃)
- Take weekend road trips
- Join after-work hangouts and resort events
- Make lifelong friends and travel buddies
“Everyone was so friendly. I made connections I’ll never forget.” – Grace, Ritz-Carlton Naples
🧳 Travel Opportunities
On your days off? The USA is your playground. Think:
- New York weekends
- Grand Canyon day trips
- Skiing in Aspen
- Disneyland runs with your crew
- Sunsets on the California coast
And when your program ends, you get a 30-day travel grace period to explore even more before heading home.
💬 Life Lessons (Beyond the Job)
Living abroad teaches you:
- How to budget and live independently
- How to adapt to new cultures and situations
- How to solve problems and take initiative
- How capable you really are
You’ll grow in ways you never imagined and return home with a seriously boosted CV and the confidence to take on anything.
If this is the kind of experience you’re craving, we’ll help you get there.
🌍 https://iwh.co.nz/usa-options/work-in-america/12-month-work-and-travel-j1