Cincinnati Tips

Cincinnati Tips

Cincinnati Weather

Summer in Cincinnati can bring daytime temperatures ranging from the high 70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (25-32°C) on average. 

Cincinnati can be quite humid during the summer, which might be a notable change for students coming from drier climates. The high humidity levels can make the air feel warmer, so it’s important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

This time can also bring occasional thunderstorms and rain showers, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for sudden weather changes. These storms can bring heavy rain and lightning, so it’s important to stay informed about the weather forecast.

It’s recommended to have a light jacket and a hoodie when you’re getting to Cincinnati.

Things To Do in Cincinnati

Cincinnati offers an exciting array of activities for J-1 students in the Summer Work and Travel program. You can visit the Cincinnati Bengals if you would like to explore American football culture. Also, the Cincinnati Reds and FC Cincinnati if you like sports. Don’t miss the Cincinnati Zoo, one of the oldest in the country. Newport on the levee is a good place for young people to hang out and get amazing food. If you like amusement parks there is Kings Island. Also, don’t miss visiting the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal for a journey through the city’s history and science exhibits and there is more and more to do during summer.

For more information you can click here

Groceries? Here are the best choices

Aldi
1301 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071, United States
Aldi offers grocery delivery via Instacart; you can check out the app for any sales or promotions.
Kroger
130 Pavilion Pkwy Newport,KY 41071
Kroger also offers same day delivery or pickup options in most areas. Download the Kroger app to begin saving today! 
Walmart
You can subscribe to Walmart Plus for grocery delivery and online shopping. They offer a free trial period of 30 days to all new users so don’t miss out! 

Medical care

  • Keep a printed copy of your medical insurance with you at all times. Read and know the terms of your policy.
  • Store a digital copy of your medical insurance in your smartphone’s wallet app.
  • Contact the insurance company prior to visiting any medical center to get information about the coverage provided.
  • You may have to pay in cash or credit card at the time of your medical appointment. Keep all of your medical bills and receipts. You will need them to get reimbursed by the insurance company.
  • If you do not know your insurance information, provide your sponsor’s information to the receptionist at the doctor’s office or medical facility.
  • Do not go to the Emergency Room for minor illness and injuries (such as sunburn, colds, etc.). 

Visit an Urgent Care Clinic or one of the local “The Little Clinic” offices located inside your local Kroger Grocery store instead.

  • If you need medical care of an emergency nature (serious/life-threatening injury or illness), go to the Emergency Room or call 911 and ask for an ambulance. 

Please know the terms of your insurance – there is a high deductible if you are not admitted to the hospital after receiving emergency care.

  • If you are injured on the job, report it immediately to your supervisor so your employer is aware, and can document the injury. 

All employers are required to have Worker’s Compensation Coverage for their employees who are injured on the job, and will be responsible for the medical bills for work-related injuries.

Important laws in the U.S. you should know

J-1 visa holders in the United States, including students participating in work and travel program, are subject to specific rules and regulations outlined by the U.S. Department of State.Here are key aspects of the rules and laws for J-1 students working in the USA:

Local Laws

Please respect and follow the Local Laws!

  • Solicitation on public or private property is prohibited.
  • Drinking alcohol under the age of 21 years is illegal.
  • Drinking alcoholic beverages in public or in a vehicle is illegal.
  • Being drunk in public is prohibited.
  • Causing damage to a hotel or motel room is illegal.
  • Disrupting the flow of traffic by a pedestrian is illegal.

Safety

Be Safe!

  • Do not walk alone at night and stay in well-lit areas.
  • Do not carry important documents with you.
  • Never give out your passport to anyone.
  • Put your money in the bank and do not carry large amounts of cash.
  • Do not carry large bags and/or backpacks.
  • Lock your bike.
  • Do not hitchhike, especially if you get a ride offered by a stranger.
  • Only carry a photocopy of your passport in your wallet, do not carry the original with you and keep the original in a safe place.
  • If you are ever in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation, ask a Police officer for help.

Safety for women

Women, especially international students, can easily be the target of robbery, rape, or other serious crimes. Helpful tips:

  • Never walk alone at night.
  • Always go out in a group.
  • Always keep an eye on your drink when you go out.
  • Never accept an open drink from a stranger.
  • Never drink something that looks or smells strange.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • If someone is following you, get to a well-lit area and call 911.

U.S. State Department J1 Visa Emergency Hotline: (866) 283-9090
Information about police officers in the U.S.:
 Please do not be afraid to approach a police officer and ask for help. Police officers are public servants and can be trusted. They will not ask you for money and if you are lost, please do not hesitate to ask for directions.

Walking Safety

When walking, always use the sidewalk and if there isn’t one, walk on the road’s shoulder. Make it a habit to use crosswalks instead of walking on the street and always look both ways before crossing. It’s important to avoid flagging down cars for rides, as this can be unsafe and unpredictable.

Biking Safely

While biking, adhere strictly to traffic signals, signs, and road markings. Avoid riding on sidewalks and always go in the direction of traffic, sticking to the far right-hand side of the road. At night, ensure you use lights and reflectors for visibility. Be mindful of pedestrians and be aware of vehicles that might turn right at red lights.

Financial Safety

Keep your money secure by using ATM cards for transactions rather than carrying cash. This reduces the risk of theft or loss. Consider wiring money to your home country and use internet banking for a quick check of your account balances. Also, keep your passport and other valuables in a safe deposit box for added security.

Drugs

  • Possession of controlled dangerous substances or drugs is illegal in the USA.

Smoking

  • The legal age to purchase cigarettes in the USA is 21.

For more information about U.S. laws follow the link: https://usahello.org/life-in-usa/laws/useful-us-laws/

Legality of Marijuana in cincinnati

In Ohio, marijuana is legal for medical and recreational use. In Kentucky, recreational use is illegal, but medical use is legal, limited to CBD oil with THC.

So, is it legal for a j1 to smoke marijuana?

No, Marijuana use is illegal under U.S. federal law, and this extends to non-citizens, including J-1 visa holders. Engaging in marijuana activities, even in states where it is legal, can lead to serious immigration consequences such as deportation, denial of entry, or issues in obtaining future visas or permanent residency. It’s essential for non-citizens to comply with federal laws, particularly those concerning controlled substances like marijuana, to maintain their legal status in the U.S.

J1 Legal rights in the states

As a J-1 visa holder in the USA, you have specific legal rights and responsibilities outlined by the U.S. Department of State and the regulations governing J-1 exchange visitor programs. Here are some key points regarding your legal rights:

  • Work Authorization: Depending on your J-1 program category, you might have specific permissions for work, such as on-campus employment, academic training, or internship opportunities related to your field of study. You must adhere strictly to the limitations and guidelines set by your program sponsor regarding employment.
  • Minimum Wage and Labor Rights: Similar to other workers in the United States, you are entitled to receive at least the minimum wage set by federal or state law, whichever is higher, for the work you perform. You also have rights against workplace discrimination, harassment, and unsafe working conditions.
  • Program Compliance: You must comply with the rules and regulations of your J-1 visa program. This includes maintaining your program’s purpose, such as studying, teaching, conducting research, or participating in the specific exchange program for which your visa was granted. Any deviation from the program’s requirements should be communicated and approved by your program sponsor.
  • Health Insurance Requirement: It’s mandatory for J-1 visa holders and their dependents to have health insurance that meets the specific requirements outlined by the U.S. Department of State for the entire duration of their stay in the United States. Your program sponsor usually provides guidance or assistance in acquiring appropriate health insurance coverage.
  • Cultural Exchange Obligations: While in the United States, you’re expected to actively participate in the cultural exchange aspect of your program. Engaging in activities that promote cultural exchange and understanding between your home country and the U.S. is a fundamental part of your J-1 program.
  • Legal Protections: You have legal protections against exploitation and abuse. If you face any issues related to mistreatment, violations of your rights, or any concerns about your program or work conditions, you can seek assistance from your program sponsor, the U.S. Department of State, or legal professionals specializing in immigration or labor law.

You have legal rights in the U.S. Protect yourself against exploitation, discrimination, or any mistreatment in the workplace by being aware of your rights and seeking assistance from your program sponsor or legal experts if needed.

For more informations about your Legal Rights follow the links bellow:

To Know Your Rights Click Here

2020 J1 Student Immigration Guide ohio Click Here

State Minimum Wage Laws Click Here