You will be able to do this at any local bank, but the type of accounts and the services and fees may vary from bank to bank (ask for a FREE account). Please ask for specific information before opening any bank account.

For more information on recommended banks also visit Area Info in the navigation menu above.

There are 2 bank account types which are commonly available in U.S. banks:

Checking account

By opening a checking account you can easily deposit and withdraw money from your account via a debit card that is linked to your checking account. You can also write checks directly from this account. With a debit card you have access to your account 24 hours a day via ATM machines and can make purchases at all the locations that accept debit card payments. In addition, overdraft protection can be added to your checking account. This service allows the bank to loan your account money to cover any attempt to withdraw money from an account that does not have sufficient funds.

Savings account

The basic difference between savings and checking accounts is that savings accounts tend to earn higher interest rates but are not readily accessible. Please note that savings accounts not only earn interest at different rates, but also usually have fees and allow only a certain number of transactions per month against the account. Savings accounts are more limited accounts and you should keep this in mind when choosing what type of bank account to open. Banks are usually open Monday through Saturday. If you utilize online banking, you will be able to manage your accounts any time.

Society

American people are friendly, respectful, direct, flexible and informal.

Privacy

Physical contact and nudity is frowned upon and please bear in mind that respecting the other’s personal space is commonly understood in the United States as a proper social etiquette.

Communication

Communication with others is an efficient way of reducing unpredictability. You must ask questions whenever you think it is necessary but respect the privacy of the others. Being considerate is always appreciated and therefore if you received help, writing “thank you” notes or simply saying “thank you” will make those around you feel appreciated.

Hygiene

Personal hygiene is a must.

Job type

Your job will be a basic, entry-level job, much like one that any student would have during a school break. By keeping an open-mind, you will be able to learn many valuable things.

Wage

Each participant will be provided with a suitable work situation, with wage and work conditions consistent with that required of the American
counterparts, and in compliance with applicable federal and state law concerning employment.

Overtime

Overtime, good tips or a second job is not guaranteed. Those participants eligible for overtime must be paid in accordance with applicable state and federal law.

Commitment

You must be committed to your primary employer for the duration of your program, unless otherwise noted.

Pace

American people live in a fast-paced environment. They value time and are carefully managing their time each day. As you progress in the program you will soon get used to the fast paced schedule common in the United States.

Punctuality

Time is of great value in the United States. Therefore, punctuality is crucial in the American society and will earn you much respect among your colleagues, upper management and even friends.

You CAN trust the police. They are public servants and their job is to maintain law and order and to assist citizens and visitors in any difficulty. DO NOT HESITATE to ask the police for help.

Please remember that breaking a U.S law or being arrested may affect your program status. If you are caught committing any crime, you will be arrested. Your case would go to court and if you are found guilty, you could be fined and/or sentenced to days, weeks or even longer in jail.

• Shoplifting (taking items from a store without paying) is against the law, and you will be caught and arrested if you commit this crime.

If you are arrested, you are allowed one phone call. It is important that you always call your sponsor to notify them of your situation. If arrested, the following may happened:

• Paperwork to be filled-in
• Fingerprints
• Jail time until bail is posted
• See a court judge who hears preliminary details and drops the charges of sets a court date within 30 days. Depending on the severity, you may have to stay in the area to attend the court date

If found guilty, the possible penalties include:

• Monetary fine
• Community service
• Jail time
• Deportation

• Keep a copy of the medical insurance with you at all times. Read and know the terms of your policy.
• Contact the insurance company prior to visiting any medical center to get information about the coverage provided.
• You may have to pay cash or credit card at the time of your medical appointment. Keep all of your medical bills and receipts. You will need them to get reimbursed from the insurance company.
• Do not go to Emergency Room for minor illness and injuries (such as sunburn, colds, etc.). Visit an urgent care clinic instead.
• If you need medical care of an emergency nature (serious/life-threatening injury or illness), go to the Emergency Room or call 911 and ask for an ambulance. Please know the terms of your insurance – there is a high deductible if you are not admitted to the hospital after receiving emergency care.
• If you do not know your insurance information, provide your sponsor’s information to the receptionist at the doctor’s office or medical facility.
• If you are injured on the job, report it immediately to your supervisor so your employer is aware, and can document the injury. All employers are required to have Worker’s Compensation Coverage for their employees who are injured on the job, and will be responsible for the medical bills for work-related injuries.

• Bike Safety