Students at the International Fair

U.S. Job Search for International Students

U.S. Job Search

Learning Objectives

  • Identify work authorization needs after graduation and incorporate visa logistics into job-search timeline.
  • Learn about on and off-campus resources for international students.
  • Discover which employers have hired international students from Cornell and for which positions.
  • Identify next steps for a successful job search.

For international students seeking jobs in the U.S., it’s important to start researching your options at least 9 months before graduation. There are three factors you should consider in your U.S. job search: work visas, English language proficiency, and cultural etiquette.

Transcript [Word]

Work Visas

The first step is understanding U.S. work visas.  The following videos offer an overview of specific visas or work authorization options. The intent is to be a starting point in the visa research process. For more detailed information, visit U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

English Language Proficiency

Strong English language skills will make a significant difference in your U.S. job search.  You can improve your English by participating in conversations each day. Practice speaking in English at lunch with classmates, while working on problem sets and projects, and on the bus.

For more practice and support, take part in programs offered by Cornell’s English Language Support Office. This is a wonderful resource available to help you succeed at Cornell and in the job search. ELSO offers classes, a tutoring service, workshops, and speaking groups for international graduate students. 

U.S. Cultural Etiquette and Communication

Understanding cultural expectations is important to your job search. Going Global offers cultural advice as well as information on professional networking in the United States. Going Global also offers resources for exploring opportunities around the world, including a list of companies with branches abroad.

 

Action Items

  • View the video above
  • View the above videos on visas and immigration.
  • View the Post-Graduate Survey Reports to see which employers have hired international students from your major. Note the job titles they are hiring for.
  • Identify 5 employers who hire international students in your field.
  • Read Power Ties: The International Student’s Guide to Finding a Job in the United States by Daniel Beaudry.
  • Determine 2 next steps to help you be successful in your job search.
  • Subscribe to CU INTL Career for career-related information and job opportunities in and outside the U.S. for Cornell international students.

 

Resources