There is a persistent belief in the hospitality industry that the path to a U.S. J-1 Career Training program runs through a university diploma. Hotel management degree. Culinary arts certificate. Tourism and hospitality bachelor's. Without one of these credentials, the thinking goes, the door is closed. It is not closed. And for many experienced professionals, the work they have already done is a stronger qualification than any diploma they never earned. The J-1 Career Traini

Key insight: The J-1 Career Training category is designed for professionals who have already completed a degree or equivalent work experienc