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Table of Contents 2 About the University of South Carolina and

the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management

3 Purpose Statement

3 Proposed Program

4 Cultural Experiences

4 Program Summary

5 Program Options & Dates

6 Responsibilities of UofSC and International Institution

7 Expectations of the Student and HRSM International Internship Manager

7 Requirements for Admissions

8 Admissions Process

8 English Programs for Internationals (EPI)

9 Visa Eligibility, Requirements, and Process

11 Sister-State Partnerships

11 Cost of Program

11 Health Insurance, Medical Care, and Vaccination Requirements

12 Housing

13 Transportation

14 Living in Columbia

14 Banking and Cellphones

15 HRSM Courses Offered

16 Foreign Credit Transfer

16 Social Security Number

16 Academic Training (Internship) Information and Options

18 International Internship Manager Contact Information

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UofSC The University of South Carolina, known as UofSC, was voted Number 1 for best international experience, and is ranked Number 56 in the nation for academic programs, according to Forbes and U.S. News & World Report. The university offers three levels of degrees including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral. UofSC is home to approximately 35,000 students at the flagship Columbia campus, and has a top-level athletics program. UofSC has a long standing tradition and celebrated 200 years of education in 2001. UofSC is considered a major research institution by the Carnegie Foundation and is ranked a best value in public colleges.

The state of South Carolina offers some of the country’s most renowned beaches, golf courses, parks, historic sites, theme parks, and mountain escapes. Tourism in South Carolina is a $22.6 billion dollar industry, offering an abundance of options for everyone. Last year alone, nearly 7.3 million tourists visited Charleston, SC, a beautiful coastal city founded in 1670 with horse-drawn carriages, pastel houses, pre-revolutionary and civil war sites, and exceptional culinary experiences.

Description of HRSM The College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management (HRSM) is a powerful learning arena where passionate students, inspiring teachers, and industry leaders come together to advance the world’s customer service experience industries. The college’s mission is to prepare the next generation of leaders in our fields by integrating experiential learning, teaching excellence, impactful research and industry collaboration. The college does this across a dynamic, highly synergistic blend of academic areas dedicated to the industries that ultimately create and improve customer, guest, fan and patron experiences around the world. Our Hospitality and Tourism Management program is ranked No. 7 in the U.S. and No. 15 in the world. Creating exceptional experiences is at the heart of what we do, and together we’re leading the world’s most vibrant consumer industries.

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Purpose StatementThe purpose of the HRSM International Non-Degree Training Program is to provide non-degree seeking international students with the opportunity to learn and experience the service culture of the United States. This arrangement is intended to promote cooperation to help achieve goals and objectives between UofSC and international institutions, including proficiencies in hospitality, tourism, and recreational management as well as increased language and cultural competencies, professional work, and research experiences. Students will gain the following benefits:

n School Credit: College/university students will engage in non-degree granting programs and can transfer coursework back to their home institution. Students can fulfill the educational objectives of their degree by receiving an unparalleled academic experience in the USA.

n English Language: Students will improve their English writing, grammar, reading, vocabulary, speaking, and listening skills by studying in the USA. This experience will provide students with a deeper understanding of the American customs and culture.

n Cultural Opportunities: Diverse cultural perspectives can inspire creativity and drive innovation. Students will participate in cross-cultural experiences that will allow them to understand culture in the community and provide a well-rounded experience in the USA.

n Paid internship: Students will participate in a supervised academic training experience that will complement their studies and enhance their resumé. Students will develop a repertoire of professional skills and glean transferable skills, problem solving capabilities, self-confidence, leadership, adaptability, and cultural awareness skills.

Proposed Program The University of South Carolina, College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management seeks to establish a collaborative academic program with international partners in which qualified students may enroll at UofSC after successfully completing the first, second, or third year of the undergraduate curriculum at their home institution. Students will attend UofSC for at least one semester in a full-time non-degree capacity. The goal of this program is to enhance the educational experience and increase cultural competencies of the students through academic coursework, and through a coordinated and strategic internship placement.

The focus of this program is to allow international students to experience a new culture and engage more fully with U.S. citizens. International students will also have the opportunity to network with U.S. students in their classes. The College of HRSM has international ambassadors that will assist international students in their transition along with a Global Community Club that allows students to network with each other and learn professional development skills. Students will take courses in the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sports Management, hone their language skills, increase competencies, and participate in quality academic training (internship).

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Cultural Experiences Students will take part in enriching cross-cultural experiences while abroad. The following cultural opportunities may be included during the student’s time at UofSC:

Visit to Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, one of the nation’s most inspiring botanical gardens.

Day trip to Charleston, SC, a historic city on the sea.

A spring break trip to Atlanta or Charlotte to experience southern charm and hospitality.

A tour of the South Carolina State House.

Campus tours, and/or tours of local landmarks and historical districts.

UofSC Gamecock sporting events.

Visits to museums including the McKissick Museum and the Columbia Museum of Art.

Site-visits and networking opportunities with major employers in the area.

Program Summary: Program Type J-1 University & College Student Non-Degree Program

Language of Instruction English

Minimum GPA 2.5 on a 4.0 scale

Class Standing Undergraduate Sophomore, Junior, or Senior

Program Specialists Dr. David Cárdenas, Ms. Christina Budd

Language Experience Required TOEFL score of 77 IBT (550 PBT),

a score of 6.5 on the IELTS, or 53 on the PTE

Areas of Study Hospitality and Tourism

Credit Hours Minimum of 12 credit hours

Program Length At least one semester

Academic Training Paid internship

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Program Options: UofSC will supply two academic options for students to guarantee an exceptional experience abroad:

Option A: Students will arrive in Columbia in January and participate in student move-in, followed by the start of the spring semester. Students will enroll in 12-15 academic credit hours over a 16-week period. Students will have the opportunity to interact with their peers, attend UofSC events, participate in cultural trips, and engage in a wide array of educational programs.

After the Spring semester is completed, students will be supplied with a paid internship. This supervised academic training experience will be in the student’s major field of study, is paid, and for academic credit. Students will be directly supervised by industry professionals and will be co-supervised by the HRSM International Internship Manager. Students will participate in academic training in the summer and complete their non-degree program in August or when 400 hours of academic training (internship) has been completed. Total program duration: ~8 months

Option B: Students will arrive in Columbia and participate in student move-in, followed by the start of an 8-week intensive English program at the UofSC Department of English Programs for Internationals. The intensive English program is taught five days a week and provides the opportunity for international students to improve their English language skills before enrolling in HRSM academic courses. During this time, students will have the opportunity to interact with their peers, attend UofSC events, participate in cultural trips, and increase their English skills by participating in a wide array of academic programs. Students can choose to begin this option in October.

After students complete EPI, they can enroll in courses for the spring semester. Students must successfully complete EPI in order to register for classes. Students can then select Option A for the following semester. Total program duration: ~10 months

Proposed Dates Option A Proposed Dates: August 1st - September 15th – Application period for Option A First week in January – Students move into dormitories, orientation Second week in January – First day of class April – Last day of 16-week courses May – first day of internship for Option A August – Internship experiences end Option B Proposed Dates: March- September – Application period for Option B August 1st - September 15th – Students can apply for Option A October– Students move into dormitories, orientation Second week in October – Start of English Program for Internationals December – End of English Program for Internationals Winter Break, followed by Option A the spring

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Responsibilities of UofSC and International Institution UofSC will:

n Provide international students with details of the International Non-Degree Training Program, including, but not limited to curriculum requirements, admission requirements, tuition fees and application procedures, and serve as the first point of contact for questions regarding the topics mentioned.

n Inform international partners of any significant changes which are made to the programs covered by the agreement, including dates, courses offered, and immigration regulations.

n Interview each student to guarantee they are placed in a relevant and focused academic and practical training program to assure that the program matches the student’s academic and professional interests.

n Supply a wide-array of cultural immersion experiences to the student, including experiential field trips.

n Register qualified students into the appropriate semester of the program, collect tuition fees, and award credits after students has successfully completed the program.

n Provide international students with visa qualifying/immigration documents, housing, insurance, admissions, advising, etc.

n Guarantee international students have access to important resources on campus including the library, computing labs, sports and social facilities.

n Send transcripts to the nominated offices at partnership universities at the end of the student’s stay showing courses taken, the number of credits earned, and the grades earned.

n Provide professional supervision during academic training (internship). n Develop partnerships with companies that will provide a superior practical and academic

training experience. n Assist in providing housing and ensuring adequate transportation during the academic training

experience. n Place students in a skilled academic training (that does not include occupations listed in 22 CFR

Part 62 Appendix E – Unskilled Occupations) in the student’s major field of study. Students will be directly supervised by industry professionals and co-supervised by the HRSM International Internship Manager, who will also make regular, in-person site visits.

International Institution will:

n Recruit suitable and qualified candidates. n Promote the study abroad opportunities available at UofSC and provide students with access to

UofSC publicity material. n Approve the administrative and educational requirements at UofSC and require that the rules,

regulations, and policies outlined be followed, including but not limited to admissions standards, academic progress rules, and all codes of student conduct as written in the UofSC student handbook.

n Aid students in completing application and enrollment at UofSC. n Agree that the credits earned by students abroad will be applied towards the students’ bachelor’s

degrees, provided the courses are pre-approved and the student successfully complete all of the courses in their program.

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Expectations of the student Students shall meet visa requirements and adhere to all immigration regulations.

Students are required to complete at least 12 hours of credit while enrolled.

Students should complete a minimum of 400 hours of an academic training (internship) experience.

Students will participate in the academic training experience until the date listed on their letter of acceptance, granted by the company they are interning for.

As a UofSC student, students will respect the Carolina Creed, uphold academic integrity, and the student code of conduct.

Carolinian Creed As a Carolinian...

I will practice personal and academic integrity. I will respect the dignity of all persons.

I will respect the rights and property of others. I will discourage bigotry, while striving to learn from differences in people, ideas, and opinions.

I will demonstrate concern for others, their feelings, and their need for conditions which support their work and development.

Expectations of the HRSM International Internship Manager

n Interview students for the program and properly place them in the correct academic training (internship) experience.

n Be readily available to meet with students and assure they have the resources required to be successful.

n Monitor and advise the progress of students in the program. n Serve as the primary contact for students enrolled in the program. n Develop industry partners to foster academic training experiences. n Ensure that the academic training sites are conducive to the academic training experience and in

accordance with federal regulations governing the Exchange Visitor Program. n Interact with the coordinator at the international university for the admission of students into

the program.

Admissions Requirements for Options A & B Students

n Applicants for the program must: n Have completed the first year of the undergraduate program at their home institution. n Meet the standard English Language requirement for overseas non-native speakers at the time of

admission. A TOEFL score of 77 IBT (550 PBT), a score of 6.5 on the IELTS, or 53 on the PTE is required. English scores must be from within the last two years.

n All applicants must have the minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.

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Admissions Process for Option A Students Eligible students should complete the non-degree application on the UofSC Office of Undergraduate Admissions website.

This application will be open from August 1st to September 15th.

Students will apply as a Non-Degree seeking student, which is a visiting student from another college who wishes to take a few courses but will graduate from their 4-year “home” college. The application fee is $100. A Direct Enroll Agreement will waive transient permission between UofSC and the partner university.

Admissions Process for Option B Students Eligible students will apply on the English Programs for Internationals (EPI) website for admissions no less than 30 days prior to the start of the term. EPI students will pay a fee of $125 to apply. After successful completion of EPI, students will be eligible for Option A. Students must successfully pass EPI.

English Programs for Internationals (EPI) English Programs for Internationals at the University of South Carolina provides superior English language instruction and is supported by experienced faculty and personalized services.

Intensive English (Option B Students) The intensive English program of English Programs for Internationals (EPI) of the University of South Carolina combines high-quality instruction with friendly, personalized service. EPI’s intensive English program provides an opportunity for international students to improve their English language skills in the United States. EPI is designed to help international students feel comfortable and succeed in their new environment. The Intensive English program is 8 weeks long, and each week students receive 20 hours of supervised English instruction. Intensive English is usually held Monday through Thursday from 9:00am to 12:00pm. There are three core courses: Writing/Grammar, Reading/Vocabulary, and Speaking/Listening.

Conditions of EPI Students who voluntarily enroll in EPI and fail EPI based on attendance are at risk of termination and/or cannot progress into the next semester of classes at UofSC. Students must pass EPI in order to continue to Option A. Students will meet admissions standards with a TOEFL score of 77.

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Visa Eligibility, Requirements, and Process Visa Eligibility:

1 Students must be engaged in a full-time course of study. 2 Students must participate in an academic training (internship) experience. 3 Students must participate in cultural experiences to enrich their time abroad. 4 Students must participate in academic training in the field of liberal studies. 5 Students must be in good academic standing at UofSC. 6 Students must maintain health insurance and medical evacuation/repatriation coverage for

themselves through the Academic Training period. The health insurance must meet the minimum requirements of federal regulations governing the Exchange Visitor Program.

7 Academic training (internship) must commence no later than 30 days after completion of the student’s studies.

8 Academic training (internship) must be directly related to academic/professional career. In general, applicants must be between 18 and 35.

9 Students must have proof of funding to cover the cost of the program. 10 Students must meet the vaccination requirements of the United States (pg. 11).

Visa Requirements: Exchange Visitor Program for College and University Students:

The primary goals of this program are to allow participants the opportunity to engage broadly with Americans, share their culture, strengthen their English language abilities, and learn new skills that will help them in future careers. Students will apply for a J-1 visa and will begin their exchange program with English abilities that are adequate to participate successfully in their programs and on a day-to-day basis.

The Visa-Qualifying Process:

International students must obtain a valid non-immigrant J-1 visa before entering the U.S. Students cannot apply for a J-1 visa until they have received their Form DS-2019 from UofSC. (Citizens of Canada do not need a visa to enter the U.S., but must show their DS-2019 when entering the United States). Students will pay the SEVIS fee (Student Exchange Visitor Information System) fee before appearing at a U.S. Port of Entry. SEVIS is the immigration database used to process documents for international students and exchange visitors during their stay in the United States. Please note that the following steps may differ from those of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where students will apply for their visa. Always consult the embassy or consulate for exact instructions and guidelines.

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The general steps to apply for a visa are:

n Complete the online form DS-160 (Pay the visa application fee by following instructions at the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website).

n To participate in the Exchange Visitor Program, students are responsible for the SEVIS fee. Students must bring the receipt of SEVIS fee payment with them to their visa interview.

n Make an appointment with the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for a J-1 visa.

Prepare and bring to the following to your visa interview:

n A passport valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay in the U.S. n Form DS-2019 (signed and dated). n School admission letter. n Transcripts from previous schools attended and scores of standardized tests (TOEFL etc.). n Completed visa application. n Two 2 inch x 2 inch (or 51 mm x 51 mm) photographs in the prescribed format. n A receipt for the visa application fee. n A receipt for the SEVIS fee, either the one the student received in the mail or the one printed

from the Internet, depending on which method of payment used. n Financial evidence that shows the student has sufficient funds to cover their tuition and living

expenses during the period they intend to study. n Any information that proves the student will return to their home country after finishing their

studies in the U.S. This may include proof of property, family, or other ties to their home community.

Before you leave your home country: General Checklist

n Review DS-2019 for accuracy. Send an email to iss@sc.edu if there are any errors. n Pay the SEVIS fee. n Apply for a visa. See the visa section (pg. 8) for more information. n Pack enough clothes for your first few months in Columbia. n Purchase a converter for your electrical appliances. n If applicable, obtain international traveler’s checks from your bank to pay for immediate

expenses. n If applicable, translate prescriptions for medications into English and have your physician

prepare a letter explaining that they are necessary for your health.

Document Checklist (carry to the U.S., do not pack in luggage)

n Passport with valid J-1 visa. n Financial certification. n SEVIS fee receipt. n International driver’s license, if applicable. n English translations of birth and marriage certificates, if applicable. n Proof of immunizations (vaccinations).

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Sister-State Partnerships If the student is a resident of a sister-state, resident (in-state) tuition will be granted. Citizens of the following countries and states qualify for reduced tuition:

n State of Rhineland-Palatinate/Rhineland-Pfalz - Germany n State of Thüringen - Germany n State of Brandenburg - Germany n State of Queensland - Australia n Province of Taiwan, Republic of China n Aruba

Cost of Program Estimated totals for the HRSM International Non-Degree Training Program include the SEVIS fee, DS-160 Visa application fee, UofSC fees, tuition (12-16 credit hours), HRSM program fees, cultural experiences, room (dormitory housing), and board (utilities and meals). Personal expenses and school supplies are also included.

Option A:

Resident (Sister-State) Non-Resident $24,420 $39,920

Option B:

Resident (Sister-State) + EPI Non-Resident + EPI $31,070 $41,570

Health Insurance Federal law requires all Exchange Visitor Program participants have health insurance meeting federal regulations. Health insurance premium should be approximately $1300 for the semester (Option A students), or $450 for eight weeks of EPI (Option B students). UofSC students will automatically be enrolled in the Blue Cross Blue Shield Student Health insurance plan.

On Campus Medical Care On campus medical care is available to all University of South Carolina students. When students are sick, they may go to the UofSC Thomson Health Center, which is a short walk from the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management. The health center provides many medical services, including general medicine, mental health, woman’s care, orthopedics, and internal medicine.

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Vaccination Requirements Under the immigration laws of the United States, an international exchange visitor is required to have vaccinations to prevent the following diseases: Mumps, Measles, Rubella, Meningitis, Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria Toxoids, Pertussis, Hemophilus influenza type B, and Hepatitis B. If the students will be living on campus and were born in a country considered “high risk”, they will also have to have a tuberculosis test upon arrival at UofSC. All new students must send in proof of immunizations to the Student Health Services at UofSC.

Housing The University of South Carolina will assist to provide on-campus housing to HRSM international students. One housing option may be Maxcy Residence Hall, which features suite-style rooms and is located near a nice park on campus, called the Horseshoe. Wonderful dining options are very close too. Flexible lease terms will be supplied to students for on-campus housing options. Additionally, the student group SPURS (Students Promoting the University’s Reach for Success) can ensure HRSM international students have a smooth transition to campus housing. HRSM international students will have the option to move in early too, if need be. If students are not interested in on-campus housing, UofSC will assist them in finding off-campus housing. Once students begin their academic training, UofSC will assist students in finding housing for the duration of their internship experience.

Students in Option B may designate at the time of application whether they desire to live in on-campus housing as well.

Packing List Suggested essentials to bring to Columbia, or to buy upon arrival:

n Sheets and pillowcases n Pillows n Blanket n Clothes hangers n Laundry bag n Pens, pencils, paper n Towel n Toiletries n Dishes, cups, and utensils n First-aid kit n Sewing kit

The HRSM International Internship Manager can also coordinate a trip to local shops at the beginning of the semester so students can buy supplies.

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Transportation Obtaining a Driver’s License

If a student is interested in getting a driver’s license (optional), they should apply for their driver’s license within one month of moving to Columbia. To apply or renew a driver’s license, student visa holders must show an unexpired passport, I-94 arrival record, Form DS-2019, Certificate of Enrollment from UofSC, Social Security card (or letter from Social Security Administration stating ineligibility for a Social Security number - letter is valid for only 90 days), and proof of residency in South Carolina. The following documents must be presented to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). The closest SCDMV location is 1630 Shop Road, Columbia, SC 29202

On-Campus Transportation

n Walking: While walking on campus is a realistic option for most of our students, students may want to consider other options for transportation if they wish to travel to other parts of Columbia or South Carolina.

n On-campus shuttle: UofSC offers several on-campus shuttles that take students to different areas of campus throughout the week. The shuttles are free to students.

Off-Campus Transportation

n Columbia’s bus system: The Comet, as Columbia’s bus system is known, is one of the best ways to travel. The buses generally come to each bus stop every 30 minutes on weekdays and once an hour on weekends. The Comet also gives student discounts. Students can buy a bus pass that is good for the academic year with their student ID. Students can ride the bus as much as they want with the pass (called a U-pass).

n Bicycles: Some students choose to purchase a bicycle while they are a student at UofSC. If you do purchase a bicycle, be sure to register it with UofSC’s Vehicle Management & Parking Services. In the event that the bicycle is lost or stolen, the bicycle registration will aid UofSC’s law enforcement in recovering it. Be aware of bike safety laws in Columbia and always wear a helmet.

n Taxi Services: In Columbia, you will need to call the taxi company directly to order a taxi. UofSC recommends Blue Ribbon (+1-803-754-8163) and Checker Yellow Cab (+1-803-799-3311).

n Uber and Lyft: Uber and Lyft operate in Columbia and can be utilized by downloading the mobile apps. Uber and Lyft are a ride-hailing service similar to a taxi. Riders use this system through a downloadable mobile app.

n Long-Distance Transportation n Travel by air: The Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is the airport closest to UofSC. The

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) are also located within a few hours of Columbia.

n Train: Amtrak is a long-distance option if you wish to travel throughout the United States by train.

n Bus: MegaBus and Greyhound bus options travel to other major cities in the U.S.

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Living in Columbia Columbia is a friendly, safe city that welcomes international students with its legendary southern hospitality. The city was ranked among the best college towns in the country. Columbia has a warm climate, however, changes seasonally. The winter temperature is usually 30-60° F (-1-16 °C), spring is 55-75° F (13-24 C), summer is 75-95° F (24-35 °C), and fall is 65-90° F (18-32 °C).

Banking There are many banks located close to campus. These banks know how to help and support international students studying at the university. To open an account, you will need your passport, immigration forms, and money. Here are some local bank addresses in Columbia:

Wells Fargo Bank- 705 Saluda Ave (currency exchange)

Bank of America- 1301 Gervais Street

BB&T- 1201 Main Street

Cellphones Students will be responsible for acquiring a working cellphone while abroad. Students can either purchase an international data plan in their home country or purchase an American plan upon arrival. Having a working cellphone number is mandatory. SIM cards will be provided to students in their welcome package.

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HRSM Courses Offered Creating exceptional experiences is at the heart of what the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sports Management does, and it begins with the carefully crafted educational experience provided for the students. Industry expertise, experiential learning and career development are symbols of the student experience at UofSC. Students will have many options for study. Below are a few possible options based on availability:

Core Courses

n HRTM 110 - Introduction to Hospitality Industry - Credits: 3 History, growth, developments, and future opportunities in the hospitality industry.

n HRTM 260 – Hotel Management - Credits: 3 Management of the lodging phase of the hospitality industry to include front desk, housekeeping, and maintenance areas.

n HRTM 280 – Foundations of Tourism - Credits: 3 Basic introduction to the social science of tourism in the US and the world, including definitional issues, motivations for travel, factors including demand-side and supply-side growth, tourism product, market segmentation and marketing, socioeconomic, and ecological impacts, and destination life cycle demands

n HRSM 301 – Professional Development Seminar – Section I - Credits: 3 8-week course, seminar and hands-on training to prepare students to work in the service industry Strategies, tactics, and requisite skills for career success in the hospitality, retail, sport, entertainment, and technology industries. Special section for international students.

n HRTM 388 - Resort Development and Management - Credits: 3 Examines effective practices in the sustainable planning, development, and management of resorts and spas, including host community relations, social effects, design, marketing, operations, finance, and recreation programming.

n HRTM 485 – Sustainable Tourism - Credits: 3 Principles and practices of environmental, economic, and sociocultural sustainability in tourism are described and analyzed.

n HRTM 550 – Theme Park and Attractions Management - Credits: 3 This course will give students an overview of the theme park and attractions industry. We will explore each of these areas of this industry including history, venues, recourses, ride operations, merchandising, food service and design.

n HRTM 597 – Global Travel and Tourism - Credits: 3 Study of the economic, social, cultural, political, and environmental considerations of international tourism management and development

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Internship

n HRSM 495 – Practical Training (Internship) - Credits: 3 The internship is a supervised academic training experience in the student’s major field of study. The internship will not include occupations listed in 22 CFR Part 62 Appendix E – Unskilled Occupations. Students will be directly supervised by industry professionals and co-supervised by the HRSM International Internship Manager, including regular, in-person site visits. Practical training will be paid.

Foreign Credit Transfer To transfer credits back to the students’ home institutions, courses typically must be pre-approved by the home institutions. Students who receive a foreign transcript in the USA for work they completed abroad may have their work transferred back to their home institution on a pass/fail basis. Courses must be passed with a grade of C or higher. If students receive passing marks, they typically receive credit. The performance of the student will be evaluated based on the grading scale of the University of South Carolina. Students must earn a grade considered passing by their foreign institution.

Academic Training (Internship) for Hotel, Restaurant, & Tourism Management Non-Degree Students – Options A & B Academic Training:

Students will participate in academic training with wages with the approval of the HRSM International Internship Manager, the UofSC Exchange Visitor Program Responsible Officer (OIS) and the Alternate Responsible Officer (ISS).

University of South Carolina:

UofSC will offer study in a diverse array of fields and opportunities to supply important career-related training to the student’s field of study. UofSC will partner with organizations to offer internships. Students will need to apply for a social security number once they have a job offer.

Social Security Number Students will be assigned a social security number by the Social Security Administration once they start working. Social security numbers will only be assigned once students have a job. For J-1 students, students must submit a Social Security Application (found on the UofSC International Student Services website), their passport, visa, I-94, DS-2019, and the Academic Training Letter from UofSC International Student Services.

Applying for Academic Training

To request Academic Training employment authorization required to participate in an internship (HRSM 495), students must submit the following documents to the International Student Services office at least 10 days prior to the end date of their DS-2019:

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Academic Training Request Form: This form requires a section to be completed by the student’s HRSM advisor.

Internship employment offer letter signed on letterhead and include employer’s name and address, your position title and description of duties/training goals, dates of employment, hours per week, supervisor’s name/title/email and phone, and compensation.

Proof of health insurance for the period of the Academic Training for J-1 student. Students will be required to maintain their student health insurance through the entirety of their internship. If the student’s internship continues past their end date, they will need to obtain a health insurance extension or additional coverage elsewhere.

Length of Academic Training:

400 hours, which must be completed within a period of time not to exceed the length of full-time course of study (i.e., up to 16 weeks of Academic Training for a student enrolled in one semester program).

Academic Training Options (Internship) for Hospitality & Tourism Students will have the opportunity to participate in academic training, where they can intern with top tourism and hospitality partners in the Carolinas. UofSC will assist in securing housing for students during this experience. The paid academic training experience (internship) is for academic credit with assignments throughout the duration. Some premier academic training partners for HRSM international students include:

Carowinds Premier Amusement Park in Charlotte, North Carolina

Sea Pines Family Beach Hotels & Golf Resorts in

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Aramark American food service provider

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We thank you for considering the University of South Carolina and look forward to working with you, and fulfilling your education abroad needs.

Contact: Christina M. Budd, M.S.

International Internship Manager University of South Carolina College of Hospitality, Retail, & Sport Management Close-Hipp Building I Rm. 661 803.576.6015 cbudd@mailbox.sc.edu