Statement on another inaccurate portrayal of BridgeUSA international exchange programs by the New York Times
The Alliance for International Exchange is deeply disappointed in the New York Times’ second inaccurate and reductive portrayal of U.S. Department of State BridgeUSA international exchange programs (first in September, and again in an article released on Christmas Day).
We are dismayed and disheartened by the negative experiences of the small group of individuals featured in these stories. Their experiences, however, are far from representative and do not reflect that the vast majority of the 300,000 individuals who participate in BridgeUSA programs annually have positive, life-changing experiences that improve their lives and careers and strengthen the United States’ global influence.
BridgeUSA programs are cultural exchanges programs that benefit international participants and the country alike.
According to a 2025 State Department survey of Summer Work Travel program participants:
98% of non-native English-speaking respondents indicated improving their English-language abilities.
95% of respondents indicated that they increased their knowledge of United States culture.
95% indicated being satisfied with their program sponsor.
95% reported that their work conditions were safe.
94% indicated having an overall positive program experience.
91% said their job duties were what they expected.
90% were satisfied with their job placement.
In addition, data from the Alliance’s 2025 BridgeUSA Impact Report shows that 96% of Summer Work Travel Program alumni and 94% of Intern and Trainee Program alumni recommend the program to family and friends back home.
As we noted in our response to the first Times article, BridgeUSA programs are governed by a comprehensive set of community-supported State Department regulations, as well as robust compliance mechanisms and oversight. These regulations require numerous key safeguards, including but not limited to: rigorous vetting of host employers, clear prohibitions on job placements in unsafe or inappropriate roles, and structured support systems for participants. These regulations and compliance activities continuously improve program administration and experiences.
The health, safety, welfare and success of all program participants is the exchange community’s number one priority.
Oversight of BridgeUSA programs today is even more robust than it was a decade ago, and that evolution reflects a shared, community-wide commitment to the safety, success, and cultural enrichment of every participant. In addition to creating positive, life-changing experiences for participants, BridgeUSA international exchange programs represent the most cost-effective tool in the United States’ public diplomacy toolbox, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars reinvested back in American communities.
The Alliance and its members will continue to partner with the State Department to advance the goals of these important programs while ensuring the wellbeing of participants.
