"Building a Bridge to Bulgaria" A US-Bulgarian Cultural Exchange Organization
Research Capstone Paper
IDS601
Members of the committee:
Dr. Chambers, T.
Leibowitz, A.
Dr. Mayer, S.
Research paper presented by:
Mariya Cherneva
April 29, 2011
Table of Contents
I. Executive Summary 3
II. Introduction 5
1.0 Why would someone would like to study abroad? 6
2.0 A Literature review of study abroad participants 11
3.0 USBCE Resource interviews 14
4.0 Specific information on Bulgarian stident trends 17
5.0 Creating a successful non-profit organization 19
6.0 USBCE – Created a specilized Organization 43
7.0 USBCE identifies its major outsidide organization 44
8.0 What role will USBCE play in the Work/Travel program 47
III Conclussion 51
IV Bibliography 53
V Appendix 1
VI Appendix 1
I. Executive Summary
Background
Having been the direct beneficiary of a few different types of cultural exchange programs I appreciate the value such an organization provides. In my lifetime I have been able to travel to, study and work in more than five different countries. My hope is to be able to use my experiences to create a cultural exchange organization to assist students with international study as well as a broad cultural experience. A program like this will help students to gain a global perspective and cultivate a global network of social contacts. Students can also expect to develop independence, be a more well rounded individual and become a global citizen.
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The organization will start small concentrating on a simple program limited to a US and Bulgarian cultural exchange, with plans to expand the program to include many other countries. There is a tremendous benefit to not only the student but to all that participate in a cultural exchange program. The supporting organizations, the businesses and schools, the host families, and even the future employers all realize success with involvement in this type of organization. The initial name for the organization will be the US Bulgarian Cultural Exchange program or USBCE.
USBCE will be modeled after existing and successful organizations such as American Field Service, (AFS) and International Student Exchange Programs, (ISEP). These organizations have been very successful over a long period of time and will surely be helpful as a guide. At the same time it will be important to be aware of other student exchange organizations, such as Youth For Understanding, (YFU) that have experienced some challenges. In the beginning of 2000, YFU experienced some financial difficulties that forced the organization into bankruptcy. Originally the USBCE program will be set up on a very small scale as a non-profit, educational organization, relying heavily on support from internal fund-raising, private funding organizations and, and government grant support. In addition USBCE will work very closely with Niagara University and the American University on Sofia Bulgaria to co-ordinate its study curriculum. It is most likely that in the beginning stages, only one or possibly two exchanges may be realized. As the organization strengthens financially, the hope is to support additional student exchanges and many cultural programs.
Major Findings
There is the question that in these days of virtual reality and instant information accessibility, are student exchange programs still popular? I can tell you from my personal experience there is nothing like the “live and in person” experience. Seeing things firsthand puts everything you learned in school into a real-life perspective. You can’t drink German beer or eat Italian gelato from a book. We live in communities that are increasingly multi-religious, multi-cultural, and multi-lingual. As globalization evolves, patterns of communication, business and culture are being transformed. With the growing idea that a well traveled, culturally experienced person may be the best candidate for an employer, a graduate of the USBCE should have a great advantage.
The popularity of studying abroad continues to grow, but as the economy waivers, international travel may not seem feasible to young adults and college students. A support organization such as USBCE is a crucial component for students in their efforts to keep these programs as affordable as possible. By understanding the needs of students, government organizations and educational institutions USBCE strives to assist everyone involved. Paying constant attention to the requirements, system changes and available resources, USBEC will help to keep the focus on education and the enjoyable experience of cultural exchange.
II. Introduction
The motivation for my proposed research project is to be able to create a non-profit organization that will provide assistance for US and Bulgarian citizens with studying, working abroad as well as an enhanced overall cultural exchange experience. This organization will be called the US Bulgarian Cultural Exchange program (USBCE) and is based on the belief that cross-cultural interaction creates an effective, dynamic learning environment. The goal of USBCE is to provide a resource center to assist and sponsor international educational experiences between US and Bulgarian schools. USBCE will provide global opportunities for students and educators to share their knowledge with other students, schools and communities.
USBCE will promote international learning and exchange by offering opportunities for students to experience life in the U.S. or Bulgaria. It is my goal that at the same time the cultural exchange program will provide students, host families, schools, and communities with a quality experience that will not only enhance personal growth, but also will establish lasting friendships. One of the issues that may hinder the program in its beginning stages would be language. There are many more Bulgarian students that speak and write English than Americans that can communicate in Bulgarian. This issue of language may require the USBCE program to focus more on Bulgarians coming to the US at the start.
1.0 Why would someone want to study abroad?
I believe that there could be hundreds of reasons why a student would want to study abroad however there are a few that seem to be the most important:
Study abroad is the optimal way to learn a language. There is no better and more effective way to learn a language than to be immersed in a culture that speaks the language you are learning. You're surrounded by the language on a daily basis and are seeing and hearing it in the proper cultural context. Language learning happens most quickly under these circumstances.
Study abroad provides the opportunity to travel. Weekends and academic breaks allow you to venture out and explore your surroundings - both your immediate and more distant surroundings. Since studying abroad often puts you on a completely different continent, you are much closer to places you might otherwise not have had the opportunity to visit. Some more structured study abroad programs even have field trips planned in or around the curriculum.
Study abroad allows you get to know another culture first-hand. Cultural differences are more than just differences in language, food, appearances, and personal habits. A person's culture reflects very deep perceptions, beliefs, and values that influence his or her way of life and the way that s/he views the world. Students who experience cultural differences personally can come to truly understand where other cultures are coming from.
Study abroad will help you develop skills and give you experiences a classroom setting will never provide. Being immersed in an entirely new cultural setting is scary at first, but it's also exciting. It's an opportunity to discover new strengths and abilities, conquer new challenges, and solve new problems. You will encounter situations that are wholly unfamiliar to you and will learn to adapt and respond in effective ways.
Study abroad can enhance the value of your degree. While abroad, you can take courses you would never have had the opportunity to take on your home campus. In addition, study abroad gives your language skills such a boost that it is normally quite easy to add a minor in a language or even a second major without having to take many more additional courses after the return to your home campus.
Study abroad affords you the opportunity to make friends around the world. While abroad, you will meet not only natives to the culture in which you are studying, but also other international students who are as far from home as yourself.
Study abroad helps you to learn about yourself. Students who study abroad return home with new ideas and perspectives about themselves and their own culture. The experience abroad often challenges them to reconsider their own beliefs and values. The experience may perhaps strengthen those values or it may cause students to alter or abandon them and embrace new concepts and perceptions. The encounter with other cultures enables students to see their own culture through new eyes.
Study abroad expands your worldview. In comparison with citizens of most other countries, Americans tend to be uninformed about the world beyond the nation's boundaries. Students who study abroad return home with an informed and much less biased perspective toward other cultures and peoples.
Study abroad gives you the opportunity to break out of your academic routine. Study abroad is likely to be much unlike what you are used to doing as a student. You may become familiar with an entirely new academic system and you will have the chance to take courses not offered on your home campus. It's also a great opportunity to break out the monotony of the routine you follow semester after semester.
Study abroad enhances employment opportunities. Today higher education abroad is a familiar idea that was once considered a rare occasion. Employers are seeking graduates with international experience in terms of education and exposure. International knowledge, cross-cultural communication skills, flexibility, and the ability to adapt to new circumstances are skills enhanced through study abroad that are important to employers in various fields. It’s interesting to learn that on average only four percent of U.S. undergraduates ever study abroad? At the same time, the world continues to become more globalized, American companies are increasingly investing dollars abroad, and companies from countries around the world continue to invest in the international market. Through an employer's eyes, a student who has studied abroad is self-motivated, independent, willing to embrace challenges, and able to cope with diverse problems and situations. The experience living and studying in a foreign country, negotiating another culture, and acquiring another language will all set you apart from the majority of other job applicants. Because this employment justification has such a great affect on the world economy and its overall growth it is important to look at the factors that further increase the employment opportunities for students with international exposure:
An expansion to your worldview: Students learn to see the world beyond the nation’s boundaries with an informed and much less biased perspective toward other cultures and people and become flexible to new ideas. Surveys show that students who opt to study abroad have a more expansive world-view and are far less biased towards other countries and their respective cultures. Employers too tend to view such students as independent, highly motivated and capable of tackling diverse challenges that may frequently arise in today’s increasingly multi-cultural workplaces.
Studying abroad at internationally acclaimed institutions- A definite value addition: Students get a chance to become familiar with an entirely new academic system and you will have the chance to take courses not offered on your home campus. Studying abroad brings in new diversified, attractive titles boosting your career home and abroad. In addition, study abroad gives your language skills such a boost that it is normally quite easy to add a minor in a language or even a second major without having to take many more additional courses after the return to your home campus. The overall value it adds, not only to the degree or qualification sought but also to oneself as an individual.
Enhancement in the employment opportunities: In today’s scenario, companies from countries around the world continue to invest in the international market. Through an employer’s view point, a student who has studied abroad is self-motivated, independent, willing to embrace challenges, and able to cope with diverse problems and situations. Foreign study programs, especially those undertaken in a reputed institution, enhance employment prospects simply because more multinational organizations recognize a degree or diploma acquired from these universities.
International education – multinational opportunities: Last but not the least, the increasing job opportunities that come one’s way are not to be missed. For those seeking a foothold in the international job market, internships are often found to be the most direct path as they encompass a wide variety of disciplines and locations. An internship abroad would thus open a whole world of opportunities for these students.
According to a June 2007 article in the Going Global newsletter, global executives say that “study abroad boosts employability” with the stated reasons : • Three out of four executives cite study abroad as important when evaluating candidates for junior level positions. • Eight in 10 human resource (HR) executives surveyed believed that a study abroad experience was an important factor for overseas job placement within their companies. • Two-thirds (67 percent) of HR executives surveyed said that a study abroad experience within a culturally diverse student environment distinguishes a job candidate.
In today’s increasingly international workforce it has become essential in many areas of industry for employees to have skills in working with those from other cultures Today’s workforce is increasingly global in nature. The use of the Internet and modern technology has made communicating with those in every part of the world an everyday occurrence. Many companies require that their employees deal daily with people from other countries. Many people will work on temporary assignments in other countries and most will work or interact on the job with people on the job from cultures different than their own. Sensitivity to different cultures is becoming essential in the workplace. It is becoming more common for employers to seek prospective employees who have developed an international perspective, which may include skills in foreign language proficiency, cultural sensitivity and an ability to work and communicate efficiently with those from different countries and cultures.
2.0 A Literature Review of Study Abroad Participants
Today’s workforce is increasingly diverse. Most people will work and communicate on a daily basis with those from cultures different then their own. One of the goals of higher education is to prepare students for work in today’s modern workforce. In order to succeed and adapt to the rapidly changing workforce, students need to develop a global perspective (Vaz, 2000).Studying aboard often forces students to reconcile their ideas about themselves and their cultural assumptions with the new cultural context. This often leads to dramatic self-development. (Hopkins, 1999) Encouraging students to study abroad and increasing the number of study abroad programs is becoming important for universities in preparing students for future employment.
When employers look for new hires, one of things that they value is evidence of the ability to work well with those from other cultures and evidence of a well-developed international perspective. “To thrive and manage change in their chosen professions and participate as active informed global citizens students will need to develop an international perspective” (Vaz, 2000). The majority of people employed today will need to develop these skills in order to be successful and advance in their careers. Employees in areas such as engineering, business, education and the health fields most likely will interact daily with those from cultures and ethnic backgrounds different than their own. It is important that college students develop an international perspective to enhance their resume and increase future employment opportunities.
Numerous studies have suggested that that participating in study abroad programs often contributes to the development of an international perspective. This international perspective may include cultural sensitivity, foreign language skills and the ability to communicate and work efficiently with those from other cultures. After returning from study abroad, students have indicated that that they have markedly improved foreign language proficiency, increased knowledge of the country in which they studied abroad and a developed critical perspective on the United States. (Talburt & Stewart,1999). Students interviewed after studying abroad have stated that have gained improved foreign language proficiency, a critical perspective on the Unites States, increased knowledge of the host country’s culture and enhanced social competency in unfamiliar settings (Carlson et al. 1990; Opper et al., 1990).
One of the goals of study abroad programs in universities is to expose students to foreign cultures in hopes of increasing tolerance and cultural awareness, both of which are becoming essential in today’s diverse workforce. Students who study abroad are more likely than students who have not studied abroad to think of others from different countries in terms of “Personal References” (Drews, Meyer, Peregrine & Neal, 1996). This means that they are more likely to think of people in terms of characteristics that those people may possess as opposed to physical characteristics and surface appearances, economics and politics (Drews, Meyer, Peregrine & Neal, 1996). A person who studies abroad gains perspective on how it feels to be the outsider in a foreign culture. This may increase his/her cultural sensitivity in the workplace for co-workers who find themselves in a culture different than their own or a minority in the dominant culture. Stereotyping is also less likely with the views of those who have studied abroad being more complex (Fiske & Neuberg, 1990). This implies the “kind of cognitive complexity that is associated with better decision making skills in some settings”(Suefield & Telock, 1977). Experience in foreign cultures “enhances an individual’s multicultural or pluralistic outlook” (Mahan & Stachowski, 9).
Dr. CeCelia Zorn conducted a study on the long-term impact of study abroad on nursing students and found that an enhancement of a student’s international perspective along with a student’s personal development had long lasting effects (Zorn, Ponick & Peck, 1995).
Many studies have been done on the importance of study abroad, the majority of which show a positive relationship between studying abroad and the development and enhancement of skills associated with an international perspective. These skills include increased cultural sensitivity, foreign language skills and the ability to work well with those from cultures different from one’s own. This is important as America becomes increasingly diverse. Our economy is moving to a more globally centered one.
Employers will seek those who have developed the essential skills of dealing with those from cultures different then their own. Studying aboard can contribute to the development of these skills. Therefore, college students who participate in study abroad programs greatly enhance their future job prospects by developing skills that are essential in today’s global workforce.
Participating in study abroad programs enhances a student’s future job prospects in an increasingly international workforce.
3.0 USBCE Resource Interviews
As part of my research for building the US Bulgarian Cultural Exchange program decided to the use interviews to gather support data. I was having some difficulty finding written sources and chose to create a series of relevant questions that I used to interview a variety of people involved in educational and cultural exchange programs. In addition, I found several friends and colleagues that have participated in student exchange programs and found their input to be very valuable.
All of the people I interviewed were very supportive of the idea of International exchange programs and strongly encouraged my idea. While most of the participants were focused on study at the time, they almost all ended up working in the host country and often utilize their experiences and contacts in their daily life.
The work abroad aspect of the USBCE program was viewed as being a very useful and an important part of the USBCE organization. A majority of the people interviewed felt that the work and industry connection features would help both students and businesses as well as provide much needed funding resources for the organization. As a non-profit organization, relying on private contributions and support, these connections to funding sources will be invaluable.
One of the most interesting thoughts expressed was how vital the need for a greater International understanding really is. In particular the worldwide impact of the debt crisis in Greece and the US financial downturn has caused a worldwide recession. Companies have been forced to view business on a global basis and no longer can operate soley on domestic buyers and resources. I learned that the Buffalo Niagara region is in the center of a key international market. This region has a superb logistical infrastructure that was recently recognized by Expansion Management Magazine. Buffalo Niagara is home to 8 international ports of entry (4 auto, 3 rail, 1 water), facilitating $81 billion in annual trade between Canada and the United States. That's 31% of the total trade conducted between the world's two largest trading partners. Being at the center of this international market gives Buffalo Niagara businesses a major logistical advantage. It also translates to easy access to a host of professionals with expertise in international business, including attorneys, bankers, and human relations professionals. As part of my interview process I was able to speak with Dr. Gary Praetzel, Dean of The College of Hospitality and Tourism Mangement at Niagara University. Dr. Praetzel encouraged my ideas for creating this exchange program and suggested I examine a similar program, the Atlantic Corridor, developed in Western New York. “That was the goal of the Atlantic Corridor set up in Buffalo and Ireland. This group facilitated the exchange of business people and also of educators. The idea was to promote international exchange of ideas and to network. The idea was to bring business people together to look at joint investment opportunities in these two economies. You can work to bring together visiting business leaders from Bulgaria say with the Buffalo Niagara Enterprise, the local organization responsible for economic development”. The interview results encouraged me to concentrate on the industry connections and business associations with the USBCE. Included in this organizations structure will be a person with strong industry connections and relationships with local employers. Normally in a student exchange program the participating Universities provide a variety of services such as food and housing. It will be very useful for USBCE to concentrate on resources and services that the universities do not provide. The services that seem to be most needed are language and cultural understanding courses in the host country as well as securing visas and other government required documents.
4.0 Specific Information on Bulgarian Student Trends
As the focus of USBCE organization will be on US and Bulgarian students it is important to examine what are some of the trends for study abroad. It helps to look at the more recent statistics as they apply to Eastern European students, specifically Bulgarians.
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Source: The FAIR EDUCATION BEYOND BORDERS is an initiative, developed by Bery Group Bulgaria
Information for the international students in Bulgaria
According to the Ministry of Education for the 2008/2009 academic year of 13 700 international students more than 8500 come from the neighbor states Turkey and Macedonia. The other international students come from Greece, Cyprus, Moldova, Serbia and Ukraine, which means that Bulgaria is a kind of a regional center for higher education. The foreign students choose to study in Bulgaria because of the cheaper education, the easy acceptance at the universities and the states membership in the EU. The young people say that they can get a better education in Bulgaria, than in their own country and that there are better job opportunities after their graduation. Those who have chosen to study in Bulgaria orientate themselves to the bigger universities. That is why the most of the foreign students are to be found in Sofia. [pic]
Source: The FAIR EDUCATION BEYOND BORDERS is an initiative, developed by Bery Group Bulgaria
Bulgarians in North America (US & Canada)
If we exclude the number of Russian foreign students, the Bulgarian students are the first major group of foreign students from the East European countries in the universities of USA and Canada. According to the last research made in April 2008 the number of the Russian students in USA is 5 073, whereas the Bulgarians are 3 664. The students from Romania and Poland are currently on second and third place regarding the number of students, who study in the universities of USA.
5.0 Creating A Successful Non-Profit Organization
The primary focus has been the creation of the USBCE organization from an academic and cultural perspective. I realized that good intentions and ideas will not come to be without a solid business structure. In my preliminary research I was noticed that many similar organizations were all set up as non-profit educational organizations. I also consulted with an attorney experienced in setting up a variety businesses including nonprofit organization. The most common criteria used to determine what makes an organization a nonprofit is that; 1) its mission is to be involved in activities whose goal is not primarily for profit, 2) no person owns shares of the corporation or interests in its property, and 3) the property and income of the nonprofit corporation are never distributed to any owners, but are recycled back into the nonprofit corporation's public benefit mission and activities. Using the traditional sense of “ownership”, a nonprofit organization is, in a way, owned by the public. The organization is not controlled by one person and is not privately owned by a single person. In the nonprofit structure all of the assets are dedicated to the charitable and educational purposes of the organization. After reviewing this criteria I decided that this type of an organizational set up would be the most suitable for the USBCE organization. I also quickly realized that the development of a non-profit organization alone is a major project and will be the root to success of the USBMC organization. I decide that my focus should also be on how to create a successful non-profit organization. The focus of this paper and my research results now shift to discuss how best to construct a successful non-profit organization.
Understanding the Purpose of a Nonprofit Organization
The idea behind a nonprofit organization is that it is driven by a goal or mission other than to just earn a profit. That is not to say that a nonprofit doesn’t need bring in money, it just means that profit is not its primary reason for being. The term "nonprofit" is often used to describe varying types of groups that are bound together by a desire to achieve a mission, rather than to make a profit. The term "nonprofit" does not indicate any specific type of legal structure. If a nonprofit group incorporates, it is a nonprofit corporation; if not, it is an unincorporated nonprofit association. An example of nonprofit group would be people interested in planting urban gardens or a group of soccer parents selling baked goods to support their kids team’s travel tournaments. Both groups could be called "nonprofits" because both are driven by a mission, not by profit. At the same time they could be set up with different legal structures. If the urban gardeners group never created a formal structure, it would technically be considered an unincorporated nonprofit association. If the soccer parents filed incorporation papers with the state, the group would be considered a nonprofit corporation.
USBCE as a Nonprofit Corporation
USBCE will structure itself as a nonprofit corporation. This identifies them as an organization that has a mission to serve the public interest and will have filed incorporation papers with the State of New York. Because the USBCE organization works for the public good, they may receive exemptions from state and federal taxes it would otherwise have to pay. This means that to a certain extent, they are publicly subsidized. While the goal-driven nature of the USBCE organization differentiates it from a private business, they are still not part of any government organization. This type of organization can sometimes be referred to as a nongovernmental organization or NGO. A nonprofit such as USBCE will occupy a unique position between the public and private worlds and share some characteristics of each. In exchange for being exempt from many of the taxes that normally apply to private businesses, nonprofits must dedicate themselves to the public interest and govern them-selves according to certain rules designed to ensure accountability.
To ensure that USBCE is in fact, working for the public good, and earning their tax breaks they will be required by state law to establish a certain organizational structure. USBCE as would any other nonprofit corporation must have a board of directors or a board of trustees. This board will be responsible for keeping the organization on track and working toward its stated nonprofit mission. Other state rules impose legal duties on the board to make sure that uphold the duty to act with care, the duty to be loyal to the organization, and ensure that the board does not stand to gain personally from any USBCE activities.
Running USBCE as a Nonprofit
Running a nonprofit organization is quite different from running a traditional profit driven business. While there are similarities between the two it is important to understand that running a nonprofit involves different approaches, judgments, and working styles from a typical for profit business. Although a nonprofit corporation can choose to have members with voting rights, USBCE has decided not to adopt a membership structure and, in the interests of efficiency, leave the decision making up to the directors. The other reason USBCE chose to avoid a membership structure, is that in a member system, the members participate in major corporate decisions. Specifically, the members have the exclusive right to elect directors, amend articles and bylaws and vote on a merger or dissolution of the corporation.
Naming and Structuring Your Nonprofit
Choosing a Name for the Organization - (USBCE)
Once the decision was made to organize as a nonprofit the first step was to decide on an appropriate name. The name needed to be one best that describes the organization's mission, that people will remember, and one that is not already being used by another business or group as a trademark or a domain name.
Naming of the organization is very important and often times overlooked. The name US Bulgarian Cultural Exchange (or USBCE which the public will use) was decided on because it was simple, memorable, clearly stated what the organization does, will encourage beneficiaries and invite donations.
Incorporating USBCE and the Benefits
Now that the USBCE organization has a name the next challenge is to decide to incorporate or not. A tax-exempt nonprofit corporation is commonly referred to simply as a 501 (c) organization or "501(c) (3)" status. This identification refers to the specific section of the IRS tax code that not only exempts certain nonprofits from having to pay federal income taxes, but also makes contributions to the organization tax-deductible to the donor. This and other tax exempt status will be explored in more detail again later in the paper. To make this decision clear this process is best accomplished by examining the advantages and disadvantages involved with incorporating
Benefit #1: No Taxes
As a nonprofit corporation, USBCE is eligible for state and federal exemptions from corporate income taxes plus certain other taxes. Federal corporate tax rates can run as high as thirty-four percent while state corporate taxes, especially in New York State, can be just as costly. USBCE can only expect to earn a limited amount of money from its services, and will likely want to seek an exemption. This tax exempt nonprofit will also help to save on any local and county taxes.
Benefit #2: Ability to Receive Public and Private Donations
As a nonprofit corporation, USBCE will be eligible to receive grants and donations. Tax exempt government foundations such as the National Endowment for the Arts or Humanities and private foundations such as the United Way or the Ford Foundation are required to give funds only to 501(c) organizations. Individual donors to nonprofit corporation can claim personal federal income tax deductions for their donations, and will be exempt from federal estate taxes.
Benefit #3: Protection from Personal Liability
Being able to protect members of the USBCE organization from personal liability is a key benefit of nonprofit incorporation. Board members, officers, and employees of your organization will be protected from liability for corporate debts or liabilities such as unpaid organizational debts or lawsuits against the organization. Creditors can go after only your corporate assets, not the personal assets of the people who manage, work for, or volunteer for your organization.
Benefit #4: Organizational Perpetuity
A corporation is a legal entity separate from individuals who manage it or organize it. It is this separate legal existence that affords the protection from liability, but it also means that the organization becomes immortal in a way. USBCE as a nonprofit corporation will continue to exist beyond the involvement of the people who started and who have managed it. The fact that the organization will continue in this way will be attractive to donors who are looking to fund a organization over the long term.
Benefit #5: Employee Benefits
Employee benefit insurance has is crucial in attracting the most talented and highly employees. Being a corporation allows USBCE access to employee benefits such as group life insurance, health insurance, and a pension plan. These benefits would not otherwise be available to the workers in unincorporated organizations.
Benefit #6: Corporate Structure
In researching this process it is clear that creating a nonprofit corporation is not a simple procedure. That being said, the documentation required will force the USBCE organization to be clear about its mission, its operating rules, and develop procedures for decision making. This is especially important for a nonprofit organization like USBCE where the board members will most likely come with diverse interests and viewpoints. The clear outlining the delegation of authority and specific operating rules and having them documented in the articles of incorporation and the bylaws, will make running the organization easier lead to less disagreement.
Other Benefits
Miscellaneous benefits include exemptions from county real and personal property taxes; lower postal rates on third-class bulk mailing; cheaper advertising rates; the ability to air free radio and television public service announcements (PSAs), and many others depending on the activities that USBCE engages in.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of incorporating include a lot of paperwork; additional costs such as hiring a lawyer to prepare your papers; and time and energy of staff to comply with regulatory demands and to grow the organization. There will also be some restrictions, such as no pay for your directors, no political campaigning or lobbying, and when if the USBCE organization folds, its assets must be given to another nonprofit.
In review it is clear to me that the benefits of becoming a nonprofit corporation make sense and outweigh the disadvantages. Having made this determination it is time to move on the next step in the processes.
Tax-Exempt Status
Although we have made the decision for USBCE to incorporate it is important to understand what other tax exempt options available to nonprofit organizations were reviewed in the process. Whether or not your organization chooses to incorporate, you may still be eligible for the tax-exempt status benefit as a nonprofit organization. Other sections of the federal tax code (such as 501(c) (4) or 501(c) (6)) also offer exemptions from income taxes for nonprofits, but do not allow donors to deduct their contributions. As our review concluded, the 501(c) (3) status allows for especially favorable tax treatment, most importantly the tax deductibility factor in attracting donations.
Not any group or organization is eligible to obtain 501(c) (3) tax treatment. Only groups created for specific exempt purposes religious, charitable, scientific, educational, or literary purposes, that benefit the public, are eligible. To obtain 501(c) (3) status, an organization must file an application with the IRS and be approved. The organization must submit additional documents with the application, such as its articles of incorporation and bylaws, which must show that the entity is, in fact, dedicated to one or more of the specific nonprofit purposes outlined above. In the case of the USBCE, the organization has a mission of providing educational and multi-cultural enhancements to every participant. In most states, a nonprofit that obtains an exemption from federal taxes automatically obtains an exemption from state taxes as well, so "tax-exempt" generally means exempt from both federal and state taxes.
The USBC Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan Basics)
Develop a strategic plan. The strategic planning process helps USBCE to express a vision of the organization's potential. In the early planning stages USBCE will need to outline the steps necessary to work toward that potential, and determine the staffing needed to implement the plan. In addition the organization will need to establish program and operational priorities extending into at least one year. As part of this building process USBCE will need to rely heavily on the input of its board members as well as a planning and management consultant team.
Importance of the Nonprofit's Mission
As a nonprofit organization USBCEs existence relies on its ability to clearly and legally define the purpose of the corporation's existence. A nonprofit exists to further a mission in the public interest. Beyond this legal role, a nonprofit's mission also drives many of the day-to-day operations of the nonprofit.
Because the purpose of the USBCE organization is to pursue its educational mission independent of any profit motive, success will be measured differently than a for-profit business. In the traditional sense a business is considered a success if it makes a profit and a failure if it doesn't. For a nonprofit such as USBCE, they will be judged by whether it is accomplishing its mission. In the sense, success or failure is not always easy to measure as it would be with a simple profit/loss analysis.
Even though the USBCE organization is mission driven, it does not mean they can ignore financial concerns. In all reality USBCE won't be judged purely on how well it's achieving its mission without figuring in its financial status. As you can imagine should USBCE achieve success in pursuing its mission as an exchange organization, but has no money in the bank or financial or funding prospects for its future, it can't be called a success. This financial threat will require that USBCE concentrate on developing volunteer staff and be adept at making the best use of scarce resources. USBCE must recognize the challenge of defining and measuring its success and this importance of the delicate balancing act between financing itself and achieving its mission.
Outline Specific Goals, Objectives, and Activities
Identifying more specific goals will help reduce the broad mission into individual elements. This should further assist the organization to pursue the goal with even more specific planning. Getting even more specific, you can identify specific objectives with deadlines (objectives are closely related and similar to goals but more concrete and measurable). For example, if USBCE’s goal is to assist students with securing a travel visa, an objective might be to implement a forms submission procedure, with a time frame and deadlines. It's hard to judge whether a nonprofit has successfully accomplished a broad mission or even a narrow goal, but much easier to determine whether it has achieved a well defined, concrete objective.
USBCE will also benefit by taking this process a step further and try to outline planned activities and programs separately from the organizations objectives. Being able to communicate these clearly defined activities or programs with the public about exactly what USBCE does, will help greatly in getting the public involved or attracting contributions as well as its value in managing the USBC operations. It will be important for USBCE to be sure that in outlining the specific activities and programs, they follow the organizations list of objectives and help advance the mission.
Assess Your Resources
As part of the USBCE strategic plan, we need to be sure to include an assessment of all of the available resources. This list should include money, people, expertise, skills, and other intangibles. The goal in this process is not to detail the actual fundraising plan, but simply to develop a true understanding of the assets available.
This assessment of resources should take into account more than just money. While money is a huge help in getting things done, other assets such as skills and experience, will go a long way to getting the USBCE mission accomplished. You can’t discount how valuable a group of enthusiastic, committed, volunteers can be. These assets are as valuable as the bank account or a new computer system.
Identify the USBCE Strategies
Once the organizations goals, objectives, and activities have been identified and the current resources assessed, it is time to begin to do some to do some real strategic planning. Strategic planning involves, "strategies" that are practical ideas on how to make the best use of the USBCE resources in achieving its goals.
As I have learned the best approach to strategic thinking is called a "SWOT" analysis -- an acronym for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Strengths and weaknesses are positive and negative elements within the organization; opportunities and threats are positive and negative elements outside the organization. A SWOT analysis is sometimes called a "situational assessment" or an "environmental analysis," as well.
Edit and Finalize Your Plan
After completing the all the essential elements of the initial strategic plan, give it some time before beginning a final review. This time will allow the planners to clear their brains and look at the ideas with a fresh perspective. It is important to establish a firm deadline for deciding on the final edits, to keep everyone in "wrap-up" mode and prevent too much “tinkering” or over editing of completed work.
Once your final edits have been included, USBCE has decided to create a professional document from the strategic plan and to submit it to potential funders for approval
Develop a budget and resource development plan.
As a new nonprofit organization, the USBCE leaders and managers will need to develop at least basic skills in financial management. Expecting others in the organization to manage the USBCE finances often leads to problems. Basic skills in financial management specifically in the critical areas of cash management and bookkeeping, should be done according to certain financial controls to ensure integrity in the bookkeeping process. USBCE leaders need to learn how to generate financial statements and how to analyze those statements. This is important to best understand the financial condition of the business. Financial analysis shows the real financial position of the business. Financial management is one of the most important practices in management. Financial oversight and resource development, especially in the areas of fundraising, earned income, and membership are critical board responsibilities. The resources needed to carry out the strategic plan must be described in a budget and financial plan. USBCE will need to rely on a financial consultant for guidance with this process and development.
Estimating the Income for USBCE
USBCE must budget for income as well as expenses. Even though unpredictable events may influence fees and contributions, you can estimate revenues with some degree of accuracy based on history. As with any budgeting based on the past, it is important to make adjustments for future plans and changes when you have sufficient information to anticipate. Grants from foundations, corporations, and government agencies can be more difficult to predict. These entities will prove to be a large portion of the USBCE income sources. The financial and fundraising staff, in collaboration with the executive director and fundraising committee of the board, will need to make the most realistic assessment possible for budgeting purposes. It may also be useful to develop contingency budgets for more conservative or optimistic projections of revenue.
Estimating the USBCE Expenses
Equally as important to the estimation of the organization income is estimating it expenses. Expenses are the costs required to achieve the USBCE objectives, including staff, supplies, and other resources. Here it is important to include both program and financial staff in the discussions of programmatic costs. This will help to make sure that all resources required by programs are considered. Management staff should be included in discussions for their own departmental budgets and how these relate to programmatic objectives. Because this is a new organization USBCE will need to rely on past experience, as reflected in budget to actual reports, to determine some of this information for continuing programs. Make sure to take into account upcoming changes, especially in areas such as insurance, which are subject to significant fluctuations.
Since personnel costs typically account for 60 to 70 percent of a non profit's total expense budget, be sure to plan carefully for this line item. USBCE needs to be aware that there can be a lot of "hidden" costs associated with new programs. For example, hiring new staff entails: training and support in addition to salaries and benefits; advertising new positions; evaluating your need for additional office space, furniture and equipment; and considering that an expanded staff, whether paid or unpaid, requires additional time for staff meetings, supervision, and coordination.
Assembling the Budget
It will be useful for USBCE to prepare monthly budgets that reflect the anticipated timing of revenue and expenses instead of dividing the full budget into twelve equal parts. By preparing monthly budget breakdowns and comparing them with actual dollars spent and received, USBCE can more accurately spot real changes and revise the budget accordingly. Budgets and the budget process can be an important tool for better financial management and will work to help USBCE better achieve its mission. A simple checklist for USBCE to manage its finances would be;
Bookkeeping and Accounting Overview
Tracking Income and Expenses
Create Basic Financial Reports
Audits, Reviews, and Compilations
Reporting Requirements
Establishing the USBCE Board of Directors (What makes a good board?)
Form a board of directors. The initial board will help translate the ideas behind the organization into reality through planning and fund-raising. As the organization matures, the nature and composition of its board will also change
The Duties and Task of the Board
What is the role of a non-profit board member?
Because USBCE is a new organization the newly recruited or elected board members will begin their tenure with uncertainty as to how they should serve the organization. Finding the correct mix of board member types will be key to a successful start up of the USBCE organization. There will need to be a group assembled that consists of experienced nonprofit board members with business people from the profit driven industries as well. The role of a non-profit board member is comprised of only three activities:
1. Fundraising (80 percent): Fundraising is the most important responsibility of a board member. Board members will be expected use their connections to encourage interest in and support of the USBCE organization. Board fundraising activities may include major donor solicitations, sponsorship solicitations, membership recruitment, and efforts to boost event registrations. 2. Oversight of Programs (10 percent): The USBCE nonprofit board will be responsible for the general oversight of the organization’s programs. This role does not extend to the operations behind the programs, but does include monitoring best practices. 3. Strategic Planning (10 percent): The board is the primary force behind the organization’s strategic planning decisions. Board members create or update the strategic plan and evaluate the implementation plan presented by staff.
Because a board member’s role is limited to governance and the executive director is responsible for daily operational activities, the executive director is the liaison between the board and the staff.
Board Policies and Procedures
In addition to bylaws, USBCE will be creating a lower level of structure and formality, such as board policies. This will include adopting a Conflict of Interest Policy and develop a reporting system for board members and officers to disclose whether they, or people close to them, may be in a position to benefit from something the USBCE organization is doing. Having such a policy in place will assure funders that the chief officers of USBCE understand the importance of handling charitable dollars prudently and responsibly.
Recruiting board members for USBCE • USBCE will try to utilize a board recruitment system to create its original board. Board members recruited should be selected based on their ability and willingness to fundraise. USBCE will need to avoid brining on directors with special industry experience to avoid issues of micromanagement. Potential directors should have well-established industry connections and people skills. Because 80 percent of a board member’s role is fundraising, he or she should be prepared for this responsibility.
The USBCE workforce: staff and volunteers
Based on the USBCE developed management strategy and my role as the Executive Director, I will be responsible for hiring and managing a mixed staff consisting of employees, volunteers and independent contractors. In addition to hiring it will be the responsibility of the executive director to oversee all of the required paperwork, filings, and tax related documentation.
Fundraising -Successful Fundraising
Develop your fundraising goals.
The first order of business will be for USBCE to establish goals for the amount of money you need to raise, plus what the money will be used for. Will it be used for overhead expenses, to fund an ongoing or new program, to build a new facility, to develop an emergency fund for a future need or possibly to close a deficit?
It is most likely that the organization will have a number of goals. In the case USBCE will need to develop a fundraising plan for each one. Goals should be developed together with the board of directors, and have the board's sign off. Having the board's involvement will also set the stage for their participation in the fundraising itself.
Write down your fundraising plan.
It is important to be focused on each individual fundraising plan. USBCE should plan to develop a written plan that states how much is to be raise, from what sources, and how they you will do it. The important part to have the original plan written as it can always be revised as you proceed. Not all of the ideas will work out, or you may find new sources along the way.
Estimate how much your fundraising program will cost.
When establishing the USBCE fundraising estimate it will be important to make sure all costs such as postage, creating your website, running special events, the cost of staff dedicated to fundraising, and the staff costs of managing the volunteers who will help USBCE raise funds are included.
Be realistic when estimating costs, but plan to use cost-efficient methods so that costs don't eat up all the fundraising proceeds. Most experts recommend that fundraising and overall administrative costs not exceed 25 percent of the overall operating budget. In other words, three-quarters of the expenses should be spent on doing what you were founded to do.
Develop a timeline for your fundraising plan.
USBCE should plan to fill in a year's calendar with specific activities, and identify who will be the lead for each of those projects. Go further by developing timelines for each fundraising activity, such as the direct mail campaign, the online auction, or the planned giving seminar. The timeline will surely change during the year, but having one to start with will ensure that you get something accomplished.
Evaluate your fundraising plan during the year.
A fundraising evaluation plan will improve the organizations results. Plan to evaluate what fundraising USBCE will do every few months. Develop what criteria will be used, such as amount raised, number of new donors, how many contacts you've made with foundations, improvement in donor cultivation activities. What accounted for the biggest successes? What were the biggest challenges? What should you change, drop, or add? USBCE should also be sure to take the time to learn the laws associated with fundraising. It may make sense to work with a professional fundraising energy in the beginning stages.
Once USBCE gets the hang of raising funds for a year's operation, the organization will be able move on to multi-year plans, higher goals, more sophisticated strategies, and newer techniques. To summarize the key fundraising points;
Establish the USBCE Fundraising Plan
Define USBCE Fundraising Targets and Budget
Identify and Locate Prospective Donors
Define the USBCE Fundraising Campaign
Identify the Fundraising Tools
Determine the Funding From Grants
Risk Management and Insurance
An effective risk management plan is one that reflects a wide range of views and perspectives in an organization and expresses the nonprofit's belief in and support of risk management. The plan should also state that personnel at all levels of the organization play a vital role in protecting the nonprofit's mission, reputation and assets. It should incorporate any the existing risk management policies of the organization and reflect USBCEs goals and aspirations for its risk management efforts. It is also important to focus on priority risks but at the same time be aware of secondary risks. It will be important to work closely with a professional organization to establish the original plan.
Marketing USBCE
Marketing is typically an unfamiliar concept for many nonprofit organizations unless it has been planned for in its staff building process. It's important that USBCE understands that marketing is more than just the traditional idea of obtaining a donation. Marketing is a way to satisfying the consumer and donor needs. Below are eight steps that will help start the brainstorming marketing ideas that could make a significant difference in the bottom-line of the organization.
1. Define your target markets, research similar organizations and associations. 2. Determine the desired outcome of your marketing efforts. 3. Using the information gathered in Step 1 and 2 develop brochures and marketing materials that describe the benefits, services, donation opportunities, and values of your organization. 4. Develop a social media marketing strategy. Social media such as Twitter and Facebook can provide you with ways to reach out to those interested in your organization in a low cost and effective way. Social media works great when it comes to reaching those who are passionate about causes that individuals hold dear to their hearts. 5. Develop and maintain a professional internet marketing presences by creating a web site. You can use a web site as a great resource to display useful information, news, monthly newsletters, events, create community, share alternatives to donating money, and showcase the benefits of your organization. 6. Research and maintain your prospect and customer databases. Do not let these resources be wasted. Use them for special mailings, follow-up telephone calls, event invitations, alliance development, research profiling, and market segmentation. 7. Show and advertise the results and objectives that your organization achieves. You fill find that it is effective to showcase those that are receiving benefits, inversions, activities, and projects. 8. Always actively search for alliances with other organizations, commerce, government, advertising media, and business. This step alone often brings the most benefit to nonprofit organizations.
Of course one of the most effective marketing tools available to any company is their website. As a nonprofit organization, the purpose of your web site is to reach out to potential and current clients, customers, program participants, volunteers and donors, as well as to educate the press, elected officials, other organizations, and the general public. The website isn't just to get new participants or donors; it's also supposed to help build your organization's credibility. As a nonprofit organization, you are a mission based organization looking for an educational tool and organizational exposure.
Getting Professional Help
USBCE should not hesitate to seek out and utilize the help of some of the many private and public assistance organizations. Working with groups such lawyers, accountants, and other professional organizations will be critical to the success of any nonprofit organization. Some other groups to establish working relationships with include State Secretary of State or Other Corporate Filing Offices, State Charitable Solicitation Registration Offices, Federal and State Tax Agencies, other Permit Agencies.
USBCE Checklists • Checklist: Naming and Structuring • Checklist: Developing the Strategic Plan • Checklist: Developing the Initial Budget • Checklist: Board of Directors • Checklist: Workforce: Staff and Volunteers • Checklist: Fundraising • Checklist: Risk Management and Insurance • Checklist: Understanding Contracts and Agreements • Checklist: Marketing Your Nonprofit • Checklist: Publishing Informational Materials • Checklist: Managing Your Finances • Checklist: Getting Professional Help • Nonprofit's Initial Budget
6.0 USBCE – Created as a Specialized Organization
As discussed earlier in this paper there are many well known organizations designed to provide opportunities to Study Abroad, Work Abroad, and other miscellaneous Cultural Exchange Programs. USBCE will be using the success of AFS Intercultural Programs, Inc. (AFS) and the Center for Cultural Interchange. These wonderfully successful programs are well know across the globe and really can be considered the industry standard. In addition they have built up a financial support system that will help USBCE with its smaller scale financial needs. The clear difference between organizations such as AFS and CCI is that USBEC will be focused on only US and Bulgarian exchange programs. The organization that most closely resembles the USBCE mission is the Bulgarian-American Commission for Education Exchange. At first glance it may seem that the two organizations would be competing for the same participants and funding dollars. In actuality, the USBCE plan is to be able to work together with the Bulgarian-American Commission, as a support organization, assisting the Bulgarian-American Commission with accomplishing their goals of providing educational awareness and at the time supporting the Fulbright Program. Because the design of USBCE is to work so closely with the Bulgarian-American Commission it is important to look closer at this organization, its goals, role and how it operates.
7.0 USBCE Identifies its Major Outside Support Organizations and Resources –
Bulgarian-American Commission for Educational Exchange
The Bulgarian-American Commission for Educational Exchange (Bulgarian Fulbright Commission) was officially inaugurated on February 9, 1993, under a ten-year bilateral agreement between the Governments of the United States and the Republic of Bulgaria. On December 3, 2003, a new bilateral agreement was signed between the Governments of the United States and the Republic of Bulgaria establishing the Fulbright Commission in perpetuity. The Commission consists of ten members, five of whom are American citizens and five are citizens of Bulgaria. They represent the major areas of state and public activity: government education and business. The Commission staff consists of two program officers, financial officer and cashier, administrative secretary, educational adviser, coordinator of the language-training center in Sofia and coordinators of local info centers.
The primary source of funding for the Fulbright Program and Commission in Bulgaria is an annual US government allocation of about $ 700,000 and since 2009 an annual BG Government contribution of $ 140,000.
The main function of the Commission directly derives from the goals of the Fulbright Program worldwide and consists in administering the exchange of Bulgarian and American scholars, students, teachers, school administrators and professionals and disseminating information about opportunities for study, research, teaching and lecturing in the U.S.
Prior to the establishment of the Commission the Fulbright exchange existed on a limited scale. Between 1967 and 1993 there were 102 Bulgarian and about 80 American Fulbright grantees. From 1993 to 2009 a total of 686 Bulgarian and American specialists have been awarded scholarships under the following programs: Fulbright grants for senior scholars and graduate students, Hubert Humphrey fellowships, Fulbright Teacher and School Administrator Exchange, Fulbright-Hays Summer Seminars, U.S. Studies Summer Institutes, Fulbright Senior Specialists. The total number of Bulgarian and American Fulbright grantees since 1967 is 868. Of these, 459 are Bulgarians and 409 Americans.
Educational advising is another major activity of the Commission that has dramatically expanded since the opening of the Advising Center in 1994. The Center offers ample information and guidance on educational opportunities in the US, admission procedures at US universities, financial aid, paper-based and computer-based testing, language training, the annual Fulbright and other competitions etc. Annually, the center services about 11,000 visitors, email and phone inquirers. USBCE will be able to provide regionally specific details and a local support organization to assist the organization and its participants.
In 1995 the Commission established its Language Training Center in Sofia which offers English language instruction at all levels and preparation for the American standardized tests iBT TOEFL, SAT, GRE, GMAT and business English. Annually, the Language Center trains over 400 students. Again USBCE hopes to be able to provide similar activities on a regional basis. This may also prove to be a source of significant funding support to USBCE.
To make educational opportunities in the US more widely known in Bulgaria and ensure a broader participation of candidates in the Fulbright competition, the Bulgarian Fulbright Commission has opened seven more Bulgarian information centers in the cities around the country. Here, in this area of promotion and education, the USBCE hopes to prove its value as a partner.
Every two years since 1994 the Bulgarian Fulbright Commission organizes international Fulbright conferences on key issues relating to education, culture, knowledge and the growth of civil society:
Every year since 2002 the Commission organizes a two-week Fulbright International Summer Institute. FISI offers one and two-week interdisciplinary courses in a variety of fields: political science and international relations, social studies, economics and business, education and communication, cultural studies, etc. The courses are addressed to undergraduate and graduate students and junior faculty from all over the world. Special courses are offered to US Fulbright grantees. FISI also offers a rich cultural and tourist program.
The Institute of International Education (IIE) The Institute of International Education is an organization founded over 90 years ago with the goal of fostering a mutual understanding, develop global leaders, and protect academic freedom worldwide through educational exchange and training programs that advance the vision of “Opening Minds to the World.
The Bulgarian-American Society (BAS) - The Bulgarian-American Society is a non-profit humanitarian organization founded in 1991 in Washington DC to assist the Bulgarian people. BAS works with non-profit groups and individuals in Bulgaria and the U.S, looking to promote the welfare of the Bulgarian people. At the same time BAS maintains contact with government officials in Washington DC and Sofia. Like the USBCE organization, BAS is a 501(c) organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. BAS encourages all forms of support for the Bulgarian people. USBCE sees the perfect opportunity to partner with BAS to promote their goal and to create and even larger support network. http://www.bulgarianamericansociety.org
8.0 What role will USBCE play in the Study/Work/Travel Program?
The USBCE program offers a support resource for international students in the United States and Bulgaria. Not only will USBCE assist students with their study abroad but also with cultural experiences and the opportunity to work in the United States. The work opportunity will allow visiting students the ability to gain valuable work experience while earning a modest income. The travel is limited but in most cases allows the student to travel up to 30 days to visit other areas in the United States. This program is offered to students year round.
US Government Required Documentation –
For US students traveling to Bulgaria and studying there the required documentation process is much simpler and there are very few required documents needed. The same thing cannot be said for Bulgarian students coming the study in the US. The government required documents for Bulgarians is much more complex as the process of obtaining the. It is here that the assistance provided by USBCE will prove to be a valuable resource. In order to get an appreciation for the value of USBCEs assistance, let’s examine the documentation process more closely.
What is the F1 and F2 Visa?
In the United States, the F visas are a type of non-immigrant student visa that allows foreigners to pursue education in the United States. F-1 visas are only issued in U.S. embassies and consulates outside the United States. Prospective F-1 students must first apply to the US Universities and receive a form I-20 in order to apply for an F-1 visa. F-1 students must show that they are able to support themselves during their stay in the U.S., as under this type of visa their opportunities for legal employment are quite limited. F-2 visas are given to dependents of an F-1 student. F-2 visa-holders are prohibited from any form of compensated employment. However, minor children may attend public schools.
What is the J1 Visa?
The J1 visa allows exchange visitors to legally enter the United States for work and travel. Your J1 visa will be placed in your passport with the program number on it. When you enter the United States, you will be required to show your J1 visa along with a valid DS-2019 form, passport, and will be given the stub of your I-94 card.
What is the DS-2019 form?
This form is a "Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (-1) Status" from the US government. This is the form that allows you to work in the US. This form identifies your program sponsor, and lists the exact dates which you are allowed to work and contains your US employer’s address.
Why do you need a DS-2019 form or a visa?
The J1 visa and a valid DS-2019 form are the legal documents that allow you to enter and work in the US.
What is needed to apply for the J1 Visa?
In order to apply for the program you need to be currently enrolled at the local University. To apply for a J1 Work/Travel visa you need to go to your local US Embassy or Consulate and take the following documents with you:
DS-2019 form from American Work Adventures
DS-156 – Visa Application
DS-157 and DS-158 Forms (from your local US Embassy)
Passport
Job Offer / Employer Information
Valid Student Identification
Visa Application Fee (not included in program fees)
Confirmation of SEVIS Fee Payment
What is the work (J1) Visa period?
A working visa is valid for up to a 4-month period.
What is the Grace Period for J1 visa holders?
After completing your job assignment, you are allowed to travel for a period of up to 30 days depending on Embassy Restrictions. During this travel time, you are not allowed to work.
Can you extend the program while in the US?
Extending your stay beyond the designated program dates on your DS-2019 form is not possible. You may work for no longer than 4 months and then you have 30 days for traveling.
How much money can you make as a J1 Work/Travel Student?
The exact amount of earnings is largely up to you and how hard you want to work however you will be required to pay income tax on all earnings. It is important to understand that the J1 Work/Travel Program is primarily a cultural experience.
USBCE will be able to assist participants with resources and services that include travel related resources and host country living accommodations, school and work affiliations, legal, medical, language and other support groups.
Sources of Funding for Study Abroad -
Students looking to study abroad will quickly understand how expensive this process can be. It is very important to find as many sources financial support as possible. There are many private and public organizations that provide scholarships and grants for study abroad. Here is a list of website links to some of those participating organizations; http://www.sit.edu/studyabroad/959.htm http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=68053 http://www.acls.org/grants/Default.aspx?id=530 http://allabroad.us/funding1.php http://www.state.gov/s/inr/grants/ http://www.fulbright.bg/en/p-US-Education-15/ III. Conclusion
Participating in a USBCE exchange program will provide an experience where suddenly, everything gains a new prospective. Dr. Praetzel encouraged the ideas of USBCE drawing on his own personal experience. “The work aspect part is particularly helpful. I secured the placements myself for my students in Italy in our work abroad program. Having someone who has excellent industry connections and good relationships with employers makes it much easier and much more feasible to do. Normally in a study abroad program the students are enrolled at a university and the university provides students with various services. USBCE would be able to provide services that the university could not provide - perhaps by partnering with universities who are small and who do not have the resources to support international students”. Participants in the program will acquire renewed appreciation of their life by sharing it with others. In addition working with and hosting exchange students will allow you and your family a first-hand look into another culture. Memories will be made that will last a lifetime, and establish friendships that span the miles between countries. Work study abroad programs are a great way to enhance your university education. They also show great strength of character and initiative when listed on post graduate applications and resumes. Not every student chooses to study or work abroad, as it usually not a requirement. It should be noted that the ones that do stand above the pack because they have something unique and different to offer. Spending time working and studying overseas changes your perspective, builds maturity and helps you immerse yourself in the subjects you are learning, whether you are studying foreign language, international business or anything in between.
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Interviews:
Georgieva, Kapka. E-mail interview. 10 May 2010
Popov, Vasil. Phone interview.10 May 2010
Popova, Ventzislava. Phone interview.10 May 2010
Praetzel, Gary. E-mail interview. 10 May 2010
Rikova, Viara. E-mail interview. 10 May 2010
Ruseva, Rosica. E-mail interview. 10 May 2010
Todorov, Mihail. E-mail interview. 10 May 2010
Traikova, Iva. E-mail interview. 10 May 2010
Zdravko, Zashev. E-mail interview.10 May 2010
Zashev, Stefan. E-mail interview. 10 May 2010
Websites:
Academic Aexchange Programs – Graduate Students https://www.cfda.gov/index?s=program&mode=form&tab=step1&id=5b742a212a92b37563968b8609026afe Retrieved January 30 2011
Bulgarian- American Commission for EducationalExchange http://www.fulbright.bg/en/p-US-Education-15/ Retrieved January 30 2011
Detering, M The Impact of Study Abroad on a Student’s Future Job Prospects https://www.msu.edu/user/deterin1/studyabroad.htm Retrieved May 10 2010
Early Career Postdoctoral Fellowships http://www.acls.org/grants/Default.aspx?id=530 Retrieved January 30 2011
Program for Research and Training on Eastern Europe and the Independent States of the Former Soviet Union (Title VIII) http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=68053 Retrieved April 30 2011
Sit Study Abroad http://www.sit.edu/studyabroad/959.htm Retrieved January 30 2011
STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIPS http://allabroad.us/funding1.php Retrieved January 30 2011
Youth for understanding Bulgaria http://www.yfu-bg.com/ Retrieved May 10 2010
