Our team performed a content analysis on information and learning resources available to international students seeking employment in the U.S. after graduation. Our analysis is broken out into two topics: analysis of career preparation content for international students, which includes sub-topics like interviewing, network, resume building, and more; and analysis of visa and work authorization resources.
In our analysis, we discovered that there was no shortage of information available across a number of modalities, including website articles, downloadable worksheets, videos, and virtual and in-person events. Content covers topics including resume building, interviewing, networking, job searching, salary negotiation, and more. Mostly, this content is curated and delivered by the Wasserman Center for Career Development. In addition, school-specific resources and offices also exist to deliver career support for more specialized industries and functions, such as those available through Tandon and Stern. All of these resources, in addition to offering events and content, also emphasize meeting with career advisers.
While a strong foundation of content exists, it is not geared towards international students. Furthermore, there are learning design aspects that are left to be desired. For example, the Wasserman Career Modules is built on a Google site, rather than an elearning platform. There is no pre-assessment to serve up content most relevant to users, or just-in-time delivery mechanism to ensure students are engaging with content when it is most relevant to their job search. In addition, it does not address challenges specific to international students in the content.
Our analysis of content related to job searching on NYU's resources reveals a plethora of source content, but an opportunity to increase relevancy for international students, and deliver it in a better designed learning experience.
There are 4 major types of working authorization approved by U.S. government: CPT, Pre-OPT, POST-OPT, and H1B.
CPT: is used for allowing students to work during their enrollment time. Within the semester, students can work as part-time employees. During summer, students can use CPT to work as full-time inters. To qualify for CPT, your program must have an internship elective that contributes to the required credits to complete your degree or fieldwork/practicum requirement as part of the curriculum.
How to apply: Visit NYU OGS website
Pre-OPT: If your program does not offer internship opportunity, and you would like to find a off-campus job, you can apply for Pre-OPT. Pre-completion OPT is Optional Practical Training you use before finishing your program of study.
How to apply: Visit NYU OGS website
Post-OPT: Optional Practical Training is temporary employment that is directly related to your major field of study after finishing your program. You cannot begin work on OPT until you receive your approval in the form of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and it is within the dates listed on your EAD.
Note: for non-stem students, OPT is only valid for 1 year; for STEM-student, OPT can be extended for 3 years in total.
How to apply: Visit NYU OGS website
H1B: After you applied for OPT successfully and secured a job, you can negotiate with your employer for sponsoring you H1B, which allows you work in the U.S. for a longer period.