Frequently Asked Questions

Amity Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and U.S. State Department designated BridgeUSA J-1 program sponsor.  Founded in 1962, the Amity programs were based on the belief that language learning and cultural exchange are essential to building international friendship within our global community.  This philosophy is still at the core of the organization.

Interns will stay with a Host Family for a minimum of eight weeks. They can stay longer and Host Family assignments vary from school to school. 

Host Families are volunteers and provide free room and board to Amity Interns.

Yes. All interns have a clean police record in their home country. 

They will participate in a cross-cultural exchange that will be a challenging and educational experience for all involved.  The intern and members of the Host Family must work to understand and communicate with each other.  Hosts should remember that interns have placed themselves in a foreign environment for the purpose of expanding their knowledge of education and culture.  Their highest priority is the internship at school.  Both the Host Family and the intern will have their own initial expectations of what the experience will be like and should communicate openly with each other.

Each intern must have sickness/accident insurance throughout the entire time they are in the U.S.  Many use an insurance policy recommended by Amity. If interns get sick or need medical attention, they should go to a local doctor, medical/emergency center or the emergency room at a local hospital that accepts their insurance.  The intern may have to pay out-of-pocket to cover some initial expenses.  They will need to find out the exact procedure in regards to how to use their insurance and should carefully follow instructions provided by their insurance carrier in order to receive reimbursement. 

Like any family member, interns are expected to help out around the house.  However, interns are not live-in babysitters and should not be expected to perform the duties appropriate for an au pair, such as child care, housesitting or housework beyond that of other family members. 

Interns are permitted to drive only if they hold a valid driver’s license.  They may not drive their Host Family’s car unless a prior written agreement has been signed between the parties, including insurance issues and potential damages.

The local School Coordinator is your primary contact. Your assigned Amity Program Counselor is also available to answer your questions and assist with your concerns.

The Educational Internship Program is limited to the original program dates stated on the intern’s J-1 visa sponsorship document DS-2019 and the T/IPP form DS-7002.  All interns have to return home at the end of their assignment.  The program cannot be extended beyond the original term. 

Clear, positive communication is the key to success. Please do not assume that your Intern understands your expectations unless you have taken the time to discuss them directly.