August 03, 2025
J-1 Journeys: Sara Cupi, Mercato Italiano (Naples, Florida)
- Name/age – Sara Cupi – 32
- Hometown – Desenzano Del Garda Italy
- How long have you been in the United States training with host company name/ nature of program– I have been in the United States with Mercato Italiano as a J1 Trainee for about 1 year.
- Experience working with IACC – My program specialist Ericka Rodas was present with me and very responsive with anything I needed. From the application process to renewals and everything in between Ericka checked on me frequently to see how things were going and to make sure I was being treated fairly and having an enjoyable experience.
- Can you tell us about your training program with host company name - My program was focused on enhancing my skills in management and operations at Mercato Italiano.
- What were you most excited about before your arrival to the US? I was excited to experience a new culture and part of the world. Improving my English also was something I had always been excited about as well.
- What are you enjoying the most about living in the US? I made many great new connections and learning Spanish as well as English.
- What was the most challenging aspect of the program, or living in the US for you? Adapting to a new lifestyle, a new climate, and adapting to the new habits related to my line of work.
- What drew you to the J-1 visa program? Having an experience in the US was always a dream of mine and when the opportunity arose it was an easy decision for me to make.
- What have you learned or gained during your training with host company name? I learned to utilize new systems and tools in the restaurant space. Sales skills, leadership and management skills as well.
- Do you feel as though this training opportunity with the host company name has offered you an experience that you would not have been able to have elsewhere?Yes, because it is a unique type of business that is not easily found in the US.
- Is there anything that you would like to share with our membership about the J-1 visa program that you are a part of, or with other people interested in participating in the program? Yes, I would like to mention that in the beginning its not easy to make the adjustment, it requires patience and a strong desire to change and adapt. However, once the decision is made there is a lot of support along the way which I am very grateful for. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to have an experience and I would highly recommend the experience.