INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CAREER RESOURCE GUIDE

10 Strategies for Successful Job or Internship Search for International Students

 A successful job or internship search involves using a combination of several strategies. 

Below are tips specifically for international students:


At its core, networking involves engaging in career-focused conversations with individuals to explore various career paths or job/internship prospects. These conversations can occur with acquaintances, classmates, advisors, professors, alumni employed in companies of interest, parents of fellow Davidson alumni, or even your host family. Although not everyone finds networking to be intuitive, the more you practice and engage in conversations, the more comfortable you will become. 


Networking is a crucial aspect of an effective job and internship search, whether it is conducted within the United States or internationally. It encompasses a range of settings, including one-on-one coffee meetings, conferences, large networking events, and seminars organized by professional associations. It is important to start networking early, engage in it frequently, and continuously refine your networking skills. Take advantage of networking opportunities and connect with professionals in your field of interest.


Developing strong English language skills, non-verbal communication skills, and interpersonal skills is essential for international students aiming to work and thrive in the United States. It is especially advantageous to focus on honing these skills at this time. If English is not your first language or if you need to improve your understanding of U.S.-specific interpersonal skills and patterns, it is recommended to take proactive steps to enhance them. The Center for Teaching and Learning can provide English tutoring services to assist you in improving your language proficiency. Additionally, consider engaging with the Matthews Center to participate in mock interviews that can help you gain cultural competence and enhance your interpersonal skills. By taking advantage of these resources, you can strengthen your abilities and increase your confidence in navigating the U.S. job market. 


Approach your job or internship search with intention by conducting thorough research on companies that have a track record of hiring international candidates and offering sponsorship opportunities in the past. This proactive approach can significantly increase your chances of finding opportunities that align with your goals and visa requirements. By targeting these companies, you can focus your efforts on organizations that are more likely to be receptive to hiring international talent. Utilize online resources, such as company websites, professional networks, and career platforms, to gather information about their past hiring practices and commitment to supporting international candidates. This research will help you make informed decisions and tailor your applications to companies that are more likely to provide the necessary support for your visa needs. 


Ensure that you are familiar with the specifics of writing a US-style Resume and Cover Letter, as they may differ from formats used in other countries. Seek valuable feedback and support from the Matthews Center staff to refine your documents. You can always take advantage of the convenient drop-in service available between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and 12-5 pm on Tuesdays, and 10 am - 5 pm on Thursdays. The professionals at the Center for Career Development are well-equipped to provide guidance and help you craft effective resumes and cover letters that align with US industry standards. 


Make sure to take advantage of the Interview resources and mock interview appointments available at the Matthews Center, where you can find valuable tips and guidance to enhance your interviewing skills. Our advisors are there to provide you with practical strategies and insights to excel in interviews and maximize your chances of success. By utilizing these resources, you can sharpen your interview skills and increase your confidence when facing potential employers.


Take advantage of resources such as the Explore by How You Identify guide/webpage to access specific information tailored for international students regarding career resources and professional associations. These resources can provide valuable guidance and insights into navigating the job market as an international student, including information on job search strategies, networking opportunities, and professional development resources. Utilizing these resources can help you gain a better understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities you may encounter as an international student and assist you in making informed decisions regarding your career path.


Broaden your horizons by applying for positions both in the United States and in your home country, and you may even consider exploring opportunities in a third country. Assess where your education and experiences are in demand, and be open to considering options that you might not have previously considered. Take advantage of the international career opportunities available on Interstride, a platform that can connect you with potential employers worldwide. Additionally, make use of the resources provided by GoinGlobal and the Resources for Working Internationally resource guide to further explore and research international career prospects. These resources can provide valuable insights and information to help you navigate the global job market.


International students must have a clear understanding of the regulations regarding off-campus work and how to navigate the process. It is crucial for students to effectively communicate their student visa work authorization options and potential employment visa options to employers, as not all U.S. employers may be familiar with hiring international candidates. If you have specific inquiries regarding student visa work authorization, we encourage you to consult with the Matthews Center International Student Adviser. They are equipped to provide comprehensive guidance and support to help you make informed decisions. You can also utilize our Employer Guide to Hiring International Students to help both yourself and employers better understand the specifics of Optional Practical Training & Curricular Practical Training.


Make sure to attend employer events, where you can meet both potential employers and Davidson alumni. Additionally, take advantage of online platforms like LinkedIn and Davidson Connect to further expand your professional network. These platforms can provide valuable opportunities to connect with professionals in your desired field and build relationships that can benefit your career.  


Make the most of this opportunity to immerse yourself in a US workplace alongside Davidson alumni, parents, and other professionals who are eager to share their insights and expertise. By participating, you can expand your knowledge in your chosen career areas, establish valuable connections, and enhance your resume with meaningful assets.