Job Search Guide For International Students

Your search for a job should begin in the Career Link database which is the one-stop service for SPSU students and alumni.  Included in Career Link are jobs posted to MonsterTrak based on the majors at SPSU.  In addition to Career Link, additional job search resources for international students can be found below.

It’s a good idea to network with fellow international students to find out what companies they have worked for.  It’s important to keep in mind that the conditions under which students are hired vary and may or may not include sponsorship.

Some companies or some divisions within a company will not hire international students for reasons beyond their control.  For example, a company may have government contracts that require employment of U.S. citizens only.  On the other hand, there are some companies that are known for hiring and sponsoring international students.  It is advisable to search for these companies.  Contact the Career and Counseling Center for additional information on identifying potential employers as well as coaching on targeted job search strategies.  We suggest you begin this process EARLY! 

Be careful about using a "job search service" that charges you a fee.  Reputable services will typically offer their services free of charge to you.

Internships

Web Resources

International students looking for jobs in the United States, need to understand what specific job search terms mean in the United States in order to be effective in the job search process.  It is also important to understand the implications of your visa status.

For more information about your visa and working in the United States, stop by the International Student Center located in the ATTIC (Bldg. "A", Lower Level), visit the International Student Center website or call 678.915.7938.

• Resumes

• Cover Letters

• Networking

• Interviewing In The United States

• Interviewing Tips For International Students

• Ways To Enhance Your Communication Skills

• International students may seek internships but not Co-Op positions due to visa regulations.

• Students are required to meet internship requirements and follow the guidelines of the program.

• International Student.com

• International Student Resources

• EduPass - Guide To Social Customs and Cultural Differences

• Navigating The Job Market

A resume is a summary of your work experience and qualifications.  Typically you will include information such as your education, work experience, activities, honors, academic projects (if applicable) and your skills.  Resumes should not be more than one page long if you are applying for an entry-level position.

Do not include Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores.  Instead, if you like, list:

• How many years you have studied (in English)
• How many years you have studied the English language
• How many years you have spoken English

Many students choose to state on their resumes that they are U.S. Citizens so there is no doubt when their resumes are reviewed.  In any event, an international student must decide when during the job search process to disclose their citizenship.  Some advisors recommend waiting until after a screening interview, but not waiting until the job is offered.  It is generally not advised to ask up front if a company would be willing to sponsor you.

When preparing your resume, it is not appropriate in the United States to include pictures or personal information such as your marital status, children, religion, age, etc.  We have sample resumes on our web site and in the Career and Counseling Center for your review.

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A cover letter is a written letter to a potential employer to express your interest in a position.  It accompanies your resume and allows you to expand on certain points that could only be mentioned in the resume.  We have cover letter samples that can help you write one. 

Networking is a critical skill that helps students to be more competitive when seeking jobs.  It involves making personal, written or telephone contacts with relatives, friends or alumni in the United States and back home who may be able to help you in your job search.  Fellow students from abroad who have gained some experience with the U.S. job market may be able to help you as well. 

To learn more about effective and appropriate methods for networking, international students are encouraged to attend relevant seminars offered through the Career and Counseling Center.

As a student who may be less familiar with American culture, it will be very helpful to attend our skillshops on job search related topics (interviewing, resume writing, career fairs, etc.) that are offered throughout the year.  Signs are posted across campus advertising these workshops and information is also posted in CAREER LINK.

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Interview Tips for International Students

• Arrive 5 to 15 minutes before the appointment time. Arriving late, even 5 to 10 minutes late, is viewed negatively in U.S. culture.

• Interviewer styles may vary.  Some may begin with small talk or begin with questions right away.

• If you are not comfortable speaking English, it is very important to practice your English speaking skills so that you become more comfortable with the language.  This practice will help also help you become more confident and successful in both interviewing and in networking.

• Eye Contact is important when you greet and talk with an interviewer.  While in some cultures, avoiding eye contact is seen as a sign of respect, in the U.S. avoiding eye contact can be perceived as disinterest or dishonesty. 

• Handshakes should be firm but not too tight.  If your religion prevents you from shaking hands with women, be consistent in your action.  Avoid shaking hands with both men and women to avoid the appearance of favoritism.  If you feel comfortable, you can say that your religion does not allow you to shake hands.      

• Avoid smoking before or during an interview and avoid eating food that may have a strong odor before an interview.  Utilize a breath mint such as peppermint to help refresh the mouth.

• Questions regarding age, race, sex and marital status are illegal.

• An open discussion of accomplishments and skills shows confidence.

• Schedule a mock interview with a Career and Counseling Center staff person to receive feedback on interviewing skills.

• Study commonly asked interview questions; write answers to those questions and practice your responses.

• Making friends and talking with Americans

• Talk with friends from your home country in English, which will help to make this feel more natural during the interview and job search process.

• Take courses in Communications or Speech on a for-credit basis so you will take a more focused approach to speaking English.

• Attending skillshops offered by the Career and Counseling Center

• Watching television

• Reading newspapers and magazines