International students may have a harder time securing post-graduate opportunities in the U.S. There are, however, strategies you can use as you prepare for your career search.
1. Start Early
If you can, start gaining experience before senior year through on-campus jobs, volunteering, and internships. Start researching your post-graduate options at least 9 months before graduation. In general, it takes longer for international students to find employment with a company that will sponsor employees who need work visas, so the sooner you start, the better!
2. Do Your Research
If you plan to apply for graduate schools in the U.S., make sure the schools accept international students. Follow the special admissions requirements for international students such as submitting TOEFL scores. If you plan to find a full-time position, research the employer’s policy on hiring international candidates and H1B sponsorship. Be aware of scams. Here are some websites to help you get started:
- Handshake: You can use filters when applying on Handshake to see which companies offer visa sponsorship
- USA School Search: Search for schools and programs that accept international students
- Myvisajobs.com: Find jobs and information on H-1B Visa and Green Card sponsorship trends
- H-1B Employer Data Hub: You can search for H-1B sponsors by year, employer name, or location
3. Take Advantage of Arcadia’s Resources
If you don’t know where to start your career search, set up a meeting with the OCE to discuss your specific situation and goals. Also, a résumé review will help optimize your résumé as an international candidate. Please make sure that you meet with your advisor at the ISSS regarding your visa status and work eligibility. Both Career Launchpad and the ISSS website offer resources for our international students.
4. Network
Research suggests that 80% of jobs are found through professional connections. Cultivate relationships with your classmates, professors, and supervisors. Meet with professionals at career events and connect with alumni using the LinkedIn Alumni Tool. Informational interviews are another great way to learn about an industry and build connections. Lastly, don’t forget about your elevator pitch before talking to new people!
Keep track of your e3 Career Action Plan if you have started it. Seniors, please complete it soon so you can receive your professional development certificate and wear your special e3 cord at graduation!
Job hunting is exhausting and can make you feel that you’ve done everything you could with little or no noticeable results. It’s really important to stay positive and not give up. A positive attitude, hard work, and persistence will show in everything that you do and will make employers want to invest in you. If you need help with your career search, please schedule a meeting with the OCE, or stop by Knight Hall 100. Happy job hunting!
