In the early time of this year, I was searching and applying to several architectural firms I was interested in for summer architectural internship. Fortunately, I found a firm called Kieran Timberlake based in Philadelphia who invited me to an interview and gave me an offer to work at their office during this summer. However, there was one issue which was that I was not an American citizen. I am a Canadian student studying Master of Architecture in Toronto, Canada. Therefore, I was required to obtain a J1 Visa in order to work in the States.
The problem was that the firm gave me an offer in late April, and they wanted me to work at least 3 months. Since I have to go back to school in the beginning of September, my start date of working should be as late as beginning of June. But, processing time for obtaining J1 visa usually takes more than a month which does not give me full 3 months of working time so that there was a possibility that the firm may cancel the contract.
I was really frustrated that I would lose this opportunity of an architectural internship. But, there was Architect-US Professional Career Training Program.
They understood my situation and tried their best to help me. They did everything they could do to expedite the service so that I can obtain DS-2019 form as soon as possible. Due to her extreme help, I received my DS-2019 Form a week after they applied, and I am flying to Philadelphia on 31st of May.
Patricia, Architect-US Program Director, was very kind and helpful. I once again thank her for all her assist throughout the process.
Because of Architect-US, I am able to grab this internship opportunity. Thank you Architect-US!!
