BridgeUSA Impact Survey

What is the BridgeUSA Alumni Impact Survey?

The BridgeUSA Alumni Impact Survey is an initiative to collect feedback and stories from former participants of U.S. Department of State BridgeUSA programmes (formerly known as the J-1 Exchange Vistor Program). We’re focusing on how alumni contributed to the United States during their exchange – professionally, culturally, and socially – and how the experience has shaped their journey since.

This is an opportunity to demonstrate, with real voices and data, how international exchange delivers value to U.S. communities, employers, and institutions.

Encourage your alumni to share how they contributed to the U.S. during their exchange – and your organisation could win a free WYSTC 2025 registration.

Why we need your help

Your alumni are some of the best advocates for the value of international exchange. Their stories and insights help tell the broader story of BridgeUSA – one that reaches U.S. policymakers, partners, and the public.

By sharing this survey with your alumni, you’re helping to demonstrate the real-world impact of exchange programmes – and your organisation could be in the running for a special reward.

How does it work?

  • Share the link with as many alumni as possible. 
  • The member who brings in the most completed responses wins the prize.
  • All survey data will be anonymised; you won’t need to manage any responses.

How the data will be used

The information collected through the BridgeUSA Alumni Impact Survey will be used to better understand the value that international exchange programmes bring to the United States.

Responses will contribute to:

  • Advocacy efforts that demonstrate the impact of BridgeUSA programmes
    Communications that showcase alumni contributions to U.S. organisations and communities
  • Reports and presentations to stakeholders, including government partners and policymakers
  • All data will be analysed in aggregate. No individual responses will be shared publicly or linked to personal details without explicit permission. Story submissions may be featured in WYSE materials or promotional efforts, but only with consent.

A summary of key findings will be shared with WYSE members once the survey closes.

FAQs

Who can take part in the survey?

The survey is open to any alumni who have participated in a U.S. Department of State BridgeUSA programme (formerly known as the J-1 Exchange Vistor Program) – including Au Pair, Camp Counsellor, Intern, Trainee, Summer Work Travel, College and University Student, Teacher, and others.

How will you know which organisation shared the survey?
Participants will be asked to name the organisation that sent them the survey as part of their response. This allows us to track engagement and determine eligibility for the WYSTC 2025 prize draw.
What is the prize?
The organisation that generates the highest number of completed alumni survey responses will receive one complimentary delegate ticket to WYSTC 2025.
How will the data be used?
The survey data will be analysed in aggregate to better understand how BridgeUSA alumni have contributed to the United States and how their experience has shaped their trajectory. No individual responses will be shared publicly without consent. Alumni stories may be featured in communications or advocacy materials, with permission.
Will I be able to see the responses from my alumni?
No, responses are confidential and will not be attributed to specific individuals or organisations. We will, however, share a high-level summary of the overall findings once the survey closes.
How long will the survey be open?

The survey will remain open until 2 May 2025. We recommend sharing your link with alumni as early as possible to maximise engagement.