Welcoming a Global Workforce to Kill Devil Hills
As the summer sun shines brightly on Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, the town awakens to a bustling atmosphere full of eager energy. It’s that time of the year when students from all over the globe arrive to take part in the Summer Work Travel program, a unique opportunity for them to experience life in the U.S. while working at local businesses.
A Vibrant Community of Young Workers
This year, there are an estimated over 1,000 students from various countries flocking to the Outer Banks, with many landing right in Kill Devil Hills. What draws these young adventurers? It’s the alluring combination of beautiful beaches and a chance to immerse themselves in a different culture.
Meet Chahapat Siripanishpong, or as she prefers to be called, Sanya. This 20-year-old from Bangkok, Thailand, is soaking in every moment of her summer experience. “This is my first time doing a work and travel program,” she shared. Sanya has dreams of pursuing a career as a pharmacist but is currently focused on making the most of her summer job. Many students like her aim to not just make some money; they want to gather memories, friendships, and cultural experiences that they can cherish long after the summer ends.
The Numbers Say It All
While the official numbers for 2023 aren’t set in stone yet, it’s reported that 1,152 students took part in this program in the Outer Banks, which accounted for nearly half of all J-1 visa holders in North Carolina last year. These students are not just here for a paycheck; they’re eager to grow their English language skills and build friendships. The goals of this program go beyond work; it is about fostering cultural exchange and personal growth.
Community Support and Employee Connection
The local businesses are doing their part to ensure that students feel supported. For instance, the general manager of Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar, Karen Overbey, expressed her admiration for the students’ positive attitudes and hard work. She stated, “I’m going to treat them like I would hopefully have my children treated.” This nurturing approach creates a family-like atmosphere, making it easier for these young workers to adapt to their new lives.
At the Hilton Garden Inn, the staff describe their roles as more than just a job; it’s about being a guide and friend. Jodie O’Sullivan, the human resources manager, called herself the “Hilton mama,” indicating how much she cares for her student employees. With an impressive 28 J-1 students this year, the hotel has turned into a hub of activity, and the staff is thrilled to help these students gain practical experience in the hospitality industry.
Unique Life Experiences
The stories from these young workers reflect their diverse backgrounds and aspirations. Hui Jung “Nini” Kuo from Taiwan loves being near the ocean and cherishes her time biking to work, all while soaking in the local wildlife and customs. Similarly, Shawn Thomas from Jamaica has fallen in love with the beauty of the Outer Banks, sharing his delight in seeing dolphins for the first time.
Others are using their summer experiences to explore their career prospects. Ashley Onfroy, also from Jamaica, is doing a year-long internship after a mixed bag of experiences in the U.S. She decided on the Outer Banks because it seemed like a beautiful place to work and explore. Her aspiration lies in hotel management, and she sees this as a valuable stepping stone for her future.
A Blend of Cultures and Friendships
What’s remarkable is the exchange and blending of cultures happening right here in this small beach town. Potlucks, shared celebrations, and cultural exchanges allow these international students to dive deeper into the American way of life while also sharing snippets of their own traditions.
Businesses like Food Lion, which welcomes students yearly, are integral to this program’s success. They not only get much-needed help during the tourist season but also enrich the workplace by fostering a sense of community among their diverse workforce.
As summer rolls on, the vibrant presence of these international students in Kill Devil Hills enhances the town’s charm, bringing with them stories, friendships, and a taste of their cultures. For them and the welcoming community, this summer will surely be one for the books.
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
