Getting a J-1 visa through HAI, isn't though at all. When you enroll and have the money etc. After you send in the application forms, they send you your DS2019 to take the US Consulate. (By Fedex, within 2 days)
You can just go to the US Consulate in Amsterdam (call first), show your passport, give them your fingerprints and pay. They don't interview you at all. The whole thing took me 1 hour, with wife and 3 children. They keep your passport to put the visa in and the Fedex it to you in a couple of days.
If you enter the US, immigration might interview you. (at least that's what they say). Again we we're done without any questions in 15 min. (just waiting for a stamp)
The whole process is a piece of cake. (HAI and Netherlands) I don't say it's the same anywhere else.