Parcel, welcome to the world of JY,
My first tour in 2006 was to the USA, so I would say go for it, I have been on 2, Boston, New England and New York tours albeit not the same tours, the last one I did the add on in New York.
Great tours with so much to see and do.
Managing at the airport is fine, there is normally a JY rep to tick you off the list so to speak, most of the time the JY tour manager travels out with you, on odd occasions the rep has meat the group the other end, or has not flown back with the group but don't worry it's all fine and works out.
My advice to you would be book this tour, do and see all you can while away, it takes two people to have a conversation, when at the airport put your JY luggage labels on your hand luggage so people can spot you and you can spot others.Often you have the use of a airport lounge which is a great place to meet the group.
I have travelled as far as New Zealand and many other JY tours approx 10 great fun and lovely people to meet. Any other questions just ask.
Cindy