International Students and the Job Search

International Job Search

Given the shortage of U.S. work visas, it would be wise of you to at least consider looking for employment in your home country or another country outside of the U.S. The international job search strategy includes the same elements as the U.S. job search:
• Exploring Resources
• Gaining Experience
• Networking Your Way to a Job
• Preparing Country-Specific Resumes and Cover Letters

Exploring Resources

The UCS library has a large number of print and electronic resources, which relate to finding a job in the global marketplace. Some of the material is designed for American students who are searching for employment abroad; however, much of the information is just as relevant for an international student seeking employment abroad (see the resource list at the end of this guide for specific titles). UCS also subscribes to Going Global which can be accessed through a MyUCS account. International Employment Weekly is another great resource, e-mail Saskia Campbell at scampbell(at)virginia·edu to receive this listing of opportunities abroad.

The International Studies Office can provide information on a variety of organizations that assist international students in seeking employment outside the U.S. Stop by the ISO periodically to see if new information is available.

Gaining Work Experience

Use the numerous international resources and directories available through UCS to identify a company with a subsidiary in your home country. The International Division at company headquarters can identify the Regional Manager of the subsidiary who in turn can provide you with information on summer work opportunities or internships. Also, The Directory of Overseas Summer Jobs and the International Directory of Voluntary Work list information on 50,000 opportunities worldwide.

NOTE: If you are contemplating summer work overseas, it would be to your benefit to check with the International Student Advisor regarding your visa status for re-entry into the United States to continue your academic program.

Networking Your Way To A Job

Begin talking with faculty members about your career plans. Many faculty members have worked or studied abroad and maintain professional contacts with colleagues overseas. In addition, each year U.Va. hosts 200-300 visiting faculty from abroad who arrive with current information and contacts in their home countries.

U.Va. alumni living overseas can be valuable resources for information on employment opportunities. Ask a UCS staff member about accessing the University Career Assistance Network (UCAN). Also, the UVA Alumni Association has developed 20+ alumni chapters overseas. Visit http://uvaclubs·virginia·edu for a complete list and contact information. While you should not contact alumni to "ask for a job," it is certainly appropriate to ask for information, advice and/or referrals.

Many professional associations have an international membership. Visit the websites of these organizations to request information on their publications, student rates, and overseas chapters. These links may lead you to knowledgeable people and, possibly, job opportunities.

Finally, don't forget to write home. Not only will your family and friends be happy to hear from you, but you can ask them for information on the job market. Family, friends, and former employers can all provide you with job leads while you are busy studying in the United States. In addition, these contacts may also be in a position to serve as references. References from the U.S., unless internationally known in their field, will not lend as much weight to your application as a well-known figure in your home country.