Define Your Journey

WHO WE ARE

WHAT WE DO

CAMP COUNSELOR PROGRAM

STEP BY STEP

WHAT TO EXPECT

WHO WE ARE

Odyssey Camp is a cultural exchange organization headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. We are designated by the U.S. Department of State to sponsor international applicants who wish to participate in the J-1 Camp Counselor Exchange Program. Every year we sponsor thousands of enthusiastic participants who want to experience authentic American culture by spending a summer working with young campers at summer camps in the United States.

Odyssey International Exchange has been at the forefront of the J-1 cultural exchange industry for over a decade. Our vast network of partner universities, host companies and staff have helped tens of thousands of participants to experience American culture and business practices first hand, all with constant support backed by over a decade of experience. We facilitate experiences so our participants can define their own journey.

WHAT WE DO

Odyssey Camp is a designated sponsor in the J-1 Camp Counselor Exchange Program. We assist youth workers, students, teachers, or individuals with specialized skills to secure camp counselor positions at summer camps in the United States as well as the necessary documents, insurance and support to successfully complete their exchange visitor program.

Our camp programs include the following resources and services:

  • Review of applicant eligibility per Department of State guidelines
  • Interview with an Odyssey staff member
  • Review of all application documents
  • Confirmation of host company eligibility
  • Issuance of form DS-2019 (prerequisite to obtain a J-1 visa)
  • Medical insurance for the duration of the program
  • Organized cultural activities and events
  • 24/7 support and access to Odyssey staff

All participants must receive a J-1 visa in order to participate in an Odyssey sponsored Camp Counselor program. The J-1 Visa was created by the U.S. government to offer students and young professionals the opportunity to participate in educational and cultural programs in the United States for a specific period of time.

These cultural exchange programs offer the chance for cultural immersion in the United States and personal and professional development to promote mutual understanding between citizens of the United States and other countries. The J-1 Visa, or Exchange Visitor Program, is a non-immigrant visa overseen by the U.S. Department of State. More information is available on the U.S. Department of State website http://j1visa.state.gov.

CAMP COUNSELOR PROGRAM

The Camp Counselor Program enables post-secondary students, youth workers, teachers and applicants with specialized skills to share their culture and ideas with the people of the United States in camp settings throughout the country. Participants in the program receive pay and benefits, such as meals and accommodation, commensurate to their American counterparts at the camps. The programs vary in length depending on the season of the camp with a maximum program duration of 4 months. After the program is complete, participants have 30 days to travel and explore the United States before they need to depart the country.

America offers a broad range of camps with different focuses such as sports, outdoor activities, cultural and religious emphases, gender specific, arts and crafts or any combination thereof! There is undoubtedly the perfect camp for you depending on your skills and interests. The only common denominator is that you must be enthusiastic about working with children and interested in exploring America!

Interested applicants must be able to provide proof of the following in order to participate in the program:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Fluency in English, as determined by an English interview conducted by an Odyssey Camp staff member. Additionally, each applicant must have an interview and receive an offer from an approved Odyssey-approved partner camp.
  • Proof of your status as a youth worker, student, teacher, or individual with specialized skills. Please see the FAQ for more information on what constitutes a specialized skill.
  • At least two references from a current or past employer or teacher attesting to your suitability to participate in the program. If you are qualifying based on a specialized skill, at least one of your references should focus on your skill.
  • Arrival funds in the amount of a minimum of $1,500USD to be used if needed.
  • Criminal background check from your home country dated within the last 6 months.

STEP BY STEP

Step 1:

Secure an offer from a camp in the U.S. There are several options for securing an offer:

  • Odyssey Camp can match you with one of our partner camps across the U.S.
  • You can employ the services of an agent in your home country who specializes in connecting applicants with camps in the U.S. This may be a good option if you have a specific camp or type of camp you want to work with that Odyssey does not.
    • IMPORTANT: If you choose to use an agent to secure your offer, the company must be an approved partner of Odyssey otherwise we cannot sponsor your program. Please contact Odyssey for a list of approved partners before you choose an agent.
  • You can secure an offer on your own directly with a camp in the U.S.

Step 2:

Submit your application documents to Odyssey. These documents and requirements can be found HERE.

Below is a map of the different regions where Odyssey sponsors camp exchanges. You can begin by thinking about what part of the U.S. you are interested in, then we can begin suggesting some camps!

Step 3:

Secure your J-1 Visa at the U.S. Embassy and book your travel! Odyssey will walk you through the embassy interview process to give you the best chance of securing your visa. Once you receive your visa, you will coordinate with your host camp on the who, what, where and when of your arrival.

WHAT TO EXPECT

What To Expect:

After you receive your J-1 Visa, you will coordinate on the details of your arrival with Odyssey and your camp. Most camps will have several days before campers arrive for new counselor orientation where you will learn the camp rules and expectations as well as the fun stuff like camp songs and activities. Most camps last approximately 9 weeks with new campers arriving every 7 days. You will be the leader for your group of campers and responsible for ensuring they have a great experience while making sure they stay safe. You will also lead specific activities for campers throughout the day. One day you may be teaching beginner archery and the next judging a cannon ball competition at the lake!

Your accommodation and food will be provided by your camp free of charge. Keep in mind that this is a “camp” so you should expect open-air cabins, sleeping bags and simple but healthy food choices. You will be paid between $1,500 - $2,000 for the average 9-week program, commensurate with your American counterparts. As part of your orientation you will need to apply for a social security number so you can be paid.

At the completion of your program you will have 30 days to remain in the U.S. to travel and explore! We highly encourage you to take advantage of this grace period and visit all the sites you can before returning home.

Program Costs:

We have two program options depending on if you would like Odyssey’s help in connecting with a host camp or if you have secured an offer on your own and just need help with J-1 Sponsorship:

  • Option 1: All-Inclusive - The All-Inclusive option connects you with a camp in the U.S. that matches your profile and preferences. We help to arrange the interviews and you choose the camp that is right for you. Once you receive an offer, we prepare all of your documentation and send you your DS-2019 so you can apply for your J-1 Visa at the U.S. Embassy.
    • Cost: $450.00 USD
  • Option 2: Self-Placement - This is for applicants who have already received an offer from a camp in the U.S. and need Odyssey’s help in securing sponsorship for your program. In this program we will ensure both you and your host camp meet the requirements for the program, then send you your DS-2019 document.
    • Cost: $650.00 USD
  • Additional Costs - When calculating the overall costs of your program, please consider the following:
    • Registration Fee: Odyssey requires a $25.00 registration fee when you first apply with the program before we begin distributing your application to our partner camps. This is a small, non-refundable fee that demonstrates your commitment to participating in the program. If you continue with your application, this fee will be applied to your program fee.
    • SEVIS: All Exchange Visitors are required to pay a SEVIS fee in the amount of $240.00. This fee is used to create a unique profile for you in the SEVIS database which sponsors and government agencies use to monitor exchange visitor programs in the U.S. Please note that Odyssey charges a $20.00 service to create the SEVIS profile on behalf of the exchange visitor.
    • DS-160 Embassy Fee: When making your appointment online for your J-1 Visa interview, you will be required to pay an Embassy Interview Fee (DS-160). In most countries, this fee is $160.00.

All Odyssey International Camp programs include the following in the program price:

  • Review of applicant eligibility per Department of State guidelines
  • Interview with an Odyssey staff member
  • Review of all application documents
  • Confirmation of host company eligibility
  • Issuance of form DS-2019 (prerequisite to obtain a J-1 visa)
  • Medical insurance for the duration of the program
  • Organized cultural activities and events
  • 24/7 support and access to Odyssey staff

Both All-Inclusive and Self-Placed programs include the above services in the program price. Anything not listed will not be provided by Odyssey, including airfare, transportation, phone etc. For a breakdown of where your fees go and an estimated budget for your time in the U.S., please refer to Odyssey’s Fee Disclosure document.

Testimonials:

“Every memorable experience starts somewhere. You pack your suitcase, you say goodbye, you forget at least 3 things that are important, and you get on a plane... to fly away from what you have known as home your whole life. Looking back at my J1 experience in Miami I can’t help but smile and feel blessed because I had the chance to learn and practice new skills while also exploring all that Florida had to offer. During the whole year, Odyssey International was like a good friend as they constantly checked in on me and provided detailed information in regard to every American tradition and holidays. Moreover, they helped me deal with the cultural shock faster and made me feel safe throughout the exchange program. Overall, the whole experience has impacted me greatly, as I have become a lot more open to new things and it made me realize that the world is more exciting if I step out of my comfort zone. So, I’d like to use this opportunity to thank Odyssey for guiding me and making me feel safe while I was away from home.”
- Alexandra Leontescu, Romania

Thank you, ODYSSEY, for the attention and support throughout the program.”
- Mikhaela Louise Beron, Philippines

“The American experience lived for one year through Odyssey was one of the best experiences of my life so far. They took care of everything…I would do this again in an instant as it simply changed my life.”
- Bianca Bar, Romania

“You guys are perfect!”
- Mikee Andrade, Philippines

“The most unforgettable thing to happen in my life! Playing in the snow in Colorado, I felt like a kid again! Thank you, Odyssey!”
- Charles Madellada, Philippines

FAQ:

Why Do I Need A J-1 Sponsor?

The J-1 exchange program is a highly structured, highly monitored non-immigrant visa program which allows students and young professionals to visit America to further the goals of mutual understanding between cultures via person-to-person diplomacy. Unlike immigrant visas which allow relative autonomy after arriving in the U.S., a J-1 visa requires constant monitoring and proof that program goals (ie. cultural exchange) are being satisfied. The United States government designates sponsor organizations to screen, select and monitor J-1 exchanging visitors during their stay in the United States. Sponsors are legally required to uphold the rules and regulations of the J-1 program and ensure participant safety.

Am I eligible to participate?

Interested applicants must be able to provide proof of the following in order to participate in the program:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Fluency in English, as determined by an English interview conducted by an Odyssey Camp staff member. Additionally, each applicant must have an interview and receive an offer from an approved Odyssey-approved partner camp.
  • Proof of your status as a youth worker, student, teacher, or individual with specialized skills.
  • At least two references from a current or past employer or teacher attesting to your suitability to participate in the program.
  • Arrival funds in the amount of a minimum of $1,500USD to be used if needed.
  • Criminal background check from your home country dated within the last 6 months.
  • Medical clearance confirming your ability to participate in the program.

What is a specialized skill?

A specialized skill would be any skill that is desirable by the camp for which you are applying. Some common examples are sports skills, sailing, archery, arts and crafts, swimming, horseback riding, CPR etc. It could be anything depending on the needs of the camp! Odyssey only requires that you submit some form of documentation attesting to your skill (ie. Formal Certificate/Certification, letter of reference, awards, work certificate from a previous employer, formal degree etc).

What will I do as a camp counselor?

No two days for a camp counselor are the same! In a nutshell, you will be responsible for ensuring the campers under your care are safe and having a great experience at camp. Daily activities will vary widely depending on the focus of your camp, but some common activities are swimming, team sports, arts and crafts, archery, horseback riding, campfire sing-alongs, group projects, camping and hiking. For this reason, all prospective counselors need to be enthusiastic, patient, flexible, in good health and love working with kids!

What is Odyssey’s role?

As your J-1 sponsor, we are responsible for your safety and welfare while in the U.S. We are also responsible for ensuring all program rules and regulations are followed by you and your host camp. Odyssey will be in contact with you throughout your time in the U.S., primarily through email, to ask for updates on your experience. You are required to complete a monthly check-in with Odyssey every 30 days so we can monitor your program and assist if you have any issues or questions. We also maintain a 24/7 emergency line so you can contact one of our staff members if you have an urgent issue.

Can I Apply If I Have Received A J-1 Visa In The Past?

Yes! Odyssey offers several options to participate in the camp counselor program depending on your situation:

  • All-Inclusive: With this option, Odyssey Camp secures you a placement at one of our partner camps and provides the J-1 sponsorship for your program.
  • Self-Placement: With this option, you secure an offer from a camp and Odyssey provides the J-1 program sponsorship for your program.
  • Self-Placement Returnee: With this option, you secure an offer at a camp where you have previously participated in a J-1 camp counselor program and Odyssey Cam provides the J-1 sponsorship.

Why Do I Have To Pay Fees To Participate In The Program?

Your program fees help to pay for the following:

  • Gathering, reviewing and processing all of your registration documents.
  • Vetting you for program eligibility as well as your host camp to ensure they meet all program requirements.
  • Issuing your DS-2019 document.
  • Medical insurance for the duration of your program.
  • Detailed pre-departure orientation.
  • Comprehensive handbooks, guides and resources to facilitate the arrival and orientation process.
  • 24 hour/7 days a week support from Odyssey staff
  • Constant monitoring, evaluating and follow-ups during your program.
  • Cultural events and activities sponsored by Odyssey.

How Long Does The Process Take?

In general, we recommend interested candidates apply at least 4 months before the date they would like to begin their program. This is to allow ample time to secure a camp counselor offer, gather and submit all of the necessary documents, receive the DS-2019 and apply for the visa in your home country.

What If I Found My Own Camp?

If you found your own camp, we can assist you in securing the necessary DS-2019 and J-1 sponsorship. This is our "Self Placement" service. Please contact Odyssey for more information.

What Is Rule 212(E) And Does It Apply To Me?

When you agree to participate in an Exchange Visitor Program and your program falls under the conditions explained below, you will be subject to the two-year home-country physical presence (foreign residence) requirement. This means you will be required to return to your home country for two years at the end of your exchange visitor program. This requirement under immigration law is based on Section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Two-year Home-country Physical Presence Requirement Conditions - An exchange visitor is subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement if the following conditions exist:

  • Government funded exchange program - The program in which the exchange visitor was participating was financed in whole or in part directly or indirectly by the U.S. government or the government of the exchange visitor's nationality or last residence;
  • Graduate medical education or training - The exchange visitor entered the United States to receive graduate medical education or training;
  • Specialized knowledge or skill: Skills List - The exchange visitor is a national or permanent resident of a country which has deemed the field of specialized knowledge or skill necessary to the development of the country, as shown on the Exchange Visitor Skills List. Review the Exchange Visitor Skills List 2009. Restrictions - When you, as an exchange visitor are subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement, you must return to your home country for a cumulative total period of at least two years before you can do any of the following:
  • Change status while in the United States to the non-immigrant categories of temporary worker (H) or intracompany transferee (L);
  • Adjust status Detailed participant handbook and orientation.
  • Receive an immigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate; or
  • Receive a temporary worker (H), intracompany transferee (L), or fiancè (K) visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

When Can I Buy My Plane Ticket And Start Making Travel Plans?

Odyssey recommends you do not purchase any non-refundable items (plane tickets, accommodations) until after you have received your J-1 visa from the US Consulate in your home country. While rare, delays and visa denials do occur unexpectedly. We understand that purchasing tickets and accommodations early can save you money. However, please be aware that Odyssey will not be responsible for any additional expenses due to delays or visa denials.

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