INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CAREER HANDBOOK - Office of Career Development Immaculata University
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CAREER HANDBOOK
Office of Career Development
Immaculata University
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
Page |2 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
WELCOME TO IMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
International Students, welcome to Immaculata University! We are very proud and
happy that you have chosen to attend our University. We hope that your educational
experiences while in the United States are positive and rewarding, yet challenging,
and help you to succeed in reaching your personal, career, and educational goals.
This Handbook contains a wide variety of information related to various career-related
topics. It was designed to assist International students with the different stages of the
career development. We hope this information is helpful as you as you explore
occupations, prepare youre resume, and search for job and internship opportunities.
We encourage you to immerse yourself in our community and take advantage of all
the resources available to you. If you have any questions about the information
contained within this document, the career office is available to you and we are
always more than happy to assist you however we can.
Best of luck in all of your endeavors. We hope you enjoy your time with us here at
Immaculata and in the United States.
Sincerely,
Diane Massey
Diane Massey, M.S.
Director of Career Development
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
Page |3 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Introduction
II. Services and Resources at Immaculata
a. Office of Career Development
i. Mission Statement
ii. Services
iii. Online Resources
III. Skills, Competencies, and Experience
a. What are Employers Looking For?
b. How to Gain Skills and Experiences
i. Campus Involvement
ii. Internships
iii. Volunteering
iv. Employment
IV. Resumes and Cover Letters
a. Resume
b. Cover Letter
c. Writing Center
V. Researching Employers
a. Networking
b. Where to Look for Information
c. Tips to Succeed in US Workplace
VI. Interviewing
a. General Preparation Tips
b. Potential Differences between US and International Interviews
c. How to Dress for a Job
d. Appropriate and Inappropriate Interview Questions
e. Challenges International Students May Face
f. Professional Etiquette
g. When Should I Tell an Employer about my Visa Status?
VII. Additional Resources
VIII. References
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY Page |4 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT I. INTRODUCTION While cultures, customs, and employment processes might be somewhat different in the United States than they are in your home country, the career development, career decision-making and job search skills needed are basically the same. Every individual who hopes to obtain a job and career one day that they enjoy, thrive in, and are successful at, need to understand certain things about themselves and the world of work. Individuals need to know who they are, what they like to do, what they are good at, and how they interact with people, data, information, and things. Everyone also needs to know how to write an effective resume, understand the most successful ways of finding a job or internship, how to build a strong network of contacts, and how to market themselves. There may be some adjustments you will need to make to be successful in the United State’s job search process based on your cultural beliefs and customs. You will want to begin the process of creating your own career path, plan, and strategy as early as possible, so you can be ready when it comes time to put these skills to work finding a job. We encourage you to attend our career workshops on writing resumes, conducting an effective job search in the U.S., how to build a career network, and how to prepare yourself for an interview. You are also welcome to make an appointment to speak with someone from our office to have your specific questions answered. Let us help you take the necessary steps. Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501 Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopment
IMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
Page |5 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
II. SERVICES AND RESOURCES AT IU
Office of Career Development
Mission Statement
The Office of Career Development encourages and supports all students and alumni as they
proactively engage in the career development process and chart their path toward life-long
career achievement. Career Development provides vocational guidance, education, and
personal support.
To carry out this Mission, the office provides:
• resources on self-awareness, career exploration, career decision-making, and
implementation of a career plan.
• assistance in developing the personal skills necessary to explore career-related goals
and career satisfaction.
• information on employers to provide job, internship, externship, volunteering, and
networking opportunities.
Services
There are many ways the Career Development office can assist you. Below is a list of some of
the main services available to you.
Career Counseling
Appointments may be scheduled to discuss career topics including interests, values, job
search strategies and other career questions.
Career Assessments
Assessment tools are available to help you learn about yourself and the world of work.
Learn how your personality, interests, values, and skills play an important role in
identifying a fulfilling career.
Resume Writing & Cover Letter Tips
Your resume is a sales tool advertising your skills, qualifications and goals. It is often a
prospective employer's first look at you, so you must make this an effective introduction.
Interviewing Skills
Preparing for an interview begins before you even start scheduling interviews. It involves
doing research on your prospective employer. It involves being prepared not only to
answer the interviewer’s questions, but also being prepared to ask appropriate
questions of your interviewer. Practicing these skills is important. A mock interview is a
good way to practice.
Job & Internship Opportunities
The fundamental purpose of an internship is to provide the student with the opportunity
to integrate learning with work/life experience. Through affiliation with an employer and
professional in the student’s area of interest, the student is able to make a more
informed and educated career choice.
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
Page |6 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Graduate School Preparation
Graduate school can be personally rewarding yet very demanding. Think through your
motivation for pursuing advanced study and talk with your adviser early about the
application process.
Career Library
There are many books relating to choosing majors, researching careers, searching for
jobs, resume writing, interviewing, and applying to graduate school available for you to
look through in the Bruder Center.
Career Workshops
Workshops are offered throughout the academic year relating to various career-related
topics. A list of upcoming events is available on the career webpage.
Online Career Resources
College Central Network
This on-line internship, full-time and part time job postings database is accessible from
any computer by visiting www.collegecentral.com/immaculata and creating your free
profile.
Focus2
This simple online, interactive career & education-planning program combines self-
assessment, career exploration and decision making into one thorough program.
What Can I DO With this Major?
Explore career opportunities by major. Information is outlined into common career
areas, typical employers, and strategies designed to maximize career opportunities
upon completion of a four-year degree.
Tutorials
These easy, online, automated power point tutorials are available any time day or night
and cover a variety of topics to help you get started on things such as writing a resume
and cover letter, preparing for an interview, finding an internship, etc.
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
Page |7 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
III. SKILLS, COMPETENCIES, AND EXPERIENCE
What are Employers Looking For?
It is important to understand what skills and competencies employers are looking for when
interviewing potential candidates so you can evaluate your own skills and begin to work on
those you might not be as strong in.
You want to seek out a variety of opportunities and experiences to utilize these skills so you
have examples to use in your cover letter, resume, and interview process.
Below is a list of the top skills and qualities employers seek in candidates:
1. Communication skills 6. Flexibility/Adaptability
(Verbal and written) 7. Interpersonal Skills
2. Honesty/integrity 8. Motivation/Initiative
3. Teamwork Skills 9. Computer skills
4. Strong Work Ethic 10. Detail-oriented
5. Analytical Skills
Note: For International Students without English as their native language, strong
communication skills are essential for prospective employees. The more that a position requires
extensive contact with others, the more important it is that your spoken English be clear.
Emphasize that you are bi-lingual, a big bonus for many companies.
How to Gain Skills and Experiences
There are many ways for you to expand current skills, gain new ones, and develop
experiences that will not only help you build your resume, but also help you gain confidence
and better understand the American culture, as well as gain new contacts.
Campus Involvement
Student Activities and Leadership
The Office of Student Activities and Leadership is dedicated to the support and growth
of individual students, the mentoring of student leaders, and the creation of a vibrant
campus community that supports diversity, respect and involvement.
Student Activities and Leadership have opportunities to get involved in:
• Clubs and Organizations
• Leadership and Government
• Greek Life
• Programming
For more information please contact Greg Striano, Director of Student Activites and
Leadership, located in DeChantal Hall Terrace (Student Development and
Engagement). 610-647-4400, ext. 3130 or gstriano@immaculata.edu.
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
Page |8 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Internships
Students who lack experience in their career fields should complete one or more internships
while working toward their degrees. According to one recent report, more than 53% of
international survey respondents received a job offer from the sponsoring American company
after they completed an internship. Obtaining an internship is important not only in terms of
resume building, but in terms of its potential to translate into a full-time job after graduation.
Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to gain experience, to try something that interests you, to meet
people and make connections. Your volunteer activities can be a wonderful addition to your
resume and may provide you with experiences, skills, and insight in to career opportunities you
might not have thought of before.
Employment
Current U.S. immigration laws permit international students to be employed in the U.S. during
and after a course of study. However, these regulations have specific requirements and
restrictions. If you wish to work in the U.S. you must plan ahead.
On-Campus Employment
International students with F-1 status must remain full-time students and thus may not
engage in unauthorized employment. Students may work on-campus up to a maximum
of 20 hours a week during the academic semester and up to 40 hours a week over
vacations.
Off-Campus Employment
Following two semesters in student status, international students may work off-campus if
approved for one of the following reasons:
• OPT – students may work up to a total of 12 months in work related to their major
upon completion of studies. If students advance to a higher level of study, an
additional 12 months is available to them.
• CPT – This employment must be an “integral part of an established curriculum.”
CPT may be part-time or full-time. Use of 12 months or more of full-time CPT eliminates
eligibility for OPT.
Students seeking to engage in off-campus employment should set up a meeting with
the Office of International Students Services.
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
Page |9 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
IV. RESUMES AND COVER LETTERS
Resume
A resume is a document highlighting your education, work experience, and skills. It is a
summary of proof that showcases your qualifications for a job, internship, or other opportunity,
and should be considered a marketing tool.
The top portion of your resume could either make or break your application. By the time
employers have read the first few lines, you have either caught their interest or they have
thrown your resume in the trash can. It is your first step toward an interview! For tips on getting
started on writing your resume, visit the career website to view the Writing Guide
(http://www.immaculata.edu/CareerDevelopment/Students) and the online tutorial
(http://www.immaculata.edu/Careerdevelopment/tutorials).
Generally speaking, there are major differences between U.S. resumes and resume formats
from other countries. These differences do not apply to all countries and do not attempt to
account for individual differences or for changes over time.
US RESUME INTERNATIONAL RESUMES
Concise, attractive marketing tool - Chronologically details academic and
summarizes jobs, skills, accomplishments, and formal work experience
academic background
relevant to employment objective
One to two pages maximum Sometimes two or more pages
Does not include age, marital status, race, or Sometimes includes age, marital status,
religion race, and/or religion
May or may not include completion of military Sometimes includes completion of
service depending upon whether it is relevant military service
or makes the person a stronger candidate
http://www.udel.edu/CSC/pdfs/resumes-international.pdf
Cover Letters
A cover letter provides you with an opportunity to introduce yourself and highlight
experiences, skills, and qualities that match the needs of the employer. A cover letter is a way
to explain to employers why they should hire you. It is a reflection of your writing and
communication skills so take time and care to ensure that your cover letter is grammatically
correct and error free.
For tips on getting started on writing your cover letter, visit the career website to view the
Writing Guide (http://www.immaculata.edu/CareerDevelopment/Students) and the online tutorial
(http://www.immaculata.edu/Careerdevelopment/tutorials).
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
P a g e | 10 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
V. RESEARCHING EMPLOYERS
We can’t guarantee a job or internship, but we can assist you with conducting your search for
opportunities, developing your resume, marketing yourself to employers, and preparing for
interviews.
Networking
Networking means establishing relationships with professionals in your fields of interest for the
purpose of making contacts and sharing information for personal or professional gain. Students
can network through their current relationships and ready-made networks such as professional
organizations, religious, and social organizations.
Benefits of networking for an International Student
• Focuses your major or career choice
• Get advice about your job search
• Validates your choice of career
• Refines your interviewing skills
• Uncovers information about a specific employer or job
Where to Look for Information
As part of the process of finding the right places for employment it is to your advantage to
practice your researching skills by locating companies or organizations.
• Directories: National Business, Specialized Business, State and Regional Business
• Books
• Business Magazines and Newspapers
• Trade Associations
• Annual Reports
• Published Financial Services
Tips to Succeed in US Workplace
• Expect cultural, personal, and societal differences.
• Understand office protocol and business norms.
• Dress for success: dress code.
• Be aware of dining etiquette.
• Respect for professional behavior.
• Comply with legal regulations in the workplace.
• Speak up and voice your issues and concerns.
• Avoid racial or sexist slurs and jokes at your workplace.
(U.S. Job Search Strategies for International Students, MIT Careers Office,
http://web.mit.edu/career/www/)
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
P a g e | 11 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
VI. Interviewing
Interviews can take place over the phone, on campus, or on-site at the company’s location.
No matter what the circumstances, their purpose remains the same: To find the best
candidate for a position. Generally, an employer decides whether or not to seriously consider
you for a position within the first 4 minutes. Do not make the mistake of going in unprepared!
Here are some tips:
• Prepare a list of questions for the interview: It shows the employer that you are
prepared, have done your research, and are interested in the company.
• Dress appropriately. If you are not sure, ask the office of Career Development what
attire is appropriate for the interview. Suits for men and women are generally
appropriate business attire for positions in a corporate environment.
• Bring several copies of your resume to the interview. If the interviewer does not have a
copy of your resume on hand, you will be prepared and able to provide one at the
interview.
• Emphasize your skills and accomplishments. Concentrate on your skills and
accomplishments, including college coursework, volunteer and extra -curricular
activities. Previous internships or work experiences are important as well to help
describe and showcase your transferable skills: bilingual, interpersonal, strong analytical
and problem solving.
General Preparation Tips
• Be a good listener
• Allow the interviewer to finish the question.
• Be aware of your non-verbal signs and body language.
• Use concrete examples from past experience to answer questions.
• Be honest and be prepared to prove everything you say.
• Research the company website and/or annual report and ask some questions specific
to that company.
• Always send a thank you note to the employer. Check note for grammatical or spelling
errors.
(U.S. Job Search Strategies for International Students, MIT Careers Office, http://web.mit.edu/career/www/)
Potential Differences between US and International Interviews
US Interviews International Interviews
Be punctual. Arrive 5 to 15 minutes early. Being late may not be a problem.
Eye contact is expected and shows Eye contact with people of higher status may
confidence. be disrespectful.
May begin with minimal small talk and direct May start with small talk and look for
questions. information regarding character or
personality.
Candidate usually does most of the talking. Interviewer may talk for the majority of the
interview.
Age, race, and relationship status questions Age, relationship status, or race may be legal
are illegal. questions and issues in the interview.
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
P a g e | 12 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Open discussion of accomplishments and skills Citing accomplishments and skills may be
shows confidence. considered boastful or too individualistic.
Interviewer may expect immediate May not expect immediate competence and
competence. be seeking a long-term employee.
Researching the organization and proving it is In-depth research may show too much
expected. Shows initiative and interest. initiative and independence. Questioning a
company may be seen as disloyal.
Acceptable to ask where they are in the Asking where they are in the process and
process when you might hear from them. when you might hear from them may be too
forward.
(U.S. Job Search Strategies for International Students, MIT Careers Office, http://web.mit.edu/career/www/)
How to Dress for a Job
Common guidelines
• More than 50 % of your first impression is what people see. Appearance is an important
aspect of Interviewing.
• Make a good impression by dressing professionally and being well-groomed!
• Bring a professional briefcase to carry extra copies of your resume or portfolio, pens,
and breathe mints.
• Appropriate professional dress depends on the company. If you are unsure about what
is considered appropriate, it is best to dress conservatively for the first impression.
• For more information, you can view the Dress for Success video online
(http://www.immaculata.edu/Careerdevelopment/tutorials)
Appropriate and Inappropriate Interview Questions
Inappropriate
Employers cannot ask questions to obtain information regarding:
• Race • Age
• Gender • Ethnicity
• Religion • Country of Origin
• Marital Status
Appropriate
Questions an Interviewer Can Ask You:
• Are you legally authorized to work in the US?
• Have you ever been convicted of a crime?
• Are you able to work the hours/travel schedule required?
• Are you able to perform the requirements of the position as outlined?
Challenges International Students May Face
• Hiring Complexities: After international students complete the optional one year of
practical training, employers must sponsor them to obtain an H1-B visa to continue
working. Hiring an international student is a more complex and often less familiar
process to many U.S. companies than hiring an American. Research the visa
sponsorship requirements so you may help educate employers.
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
P a g e | 13 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
• Commitment: Some employers fear international employees will return tot heir home
country after the employer has invested time and money, hiring, training, and possibly
sponsoring the international student. Show t hat you may be sponsored for a career
with the company. Demonstrate how you are an asset to the company’s overseas
locations and operations.
• Animosity: Some Americans feel that by hiring an international student they are taking
jobs away from United States citizens. So be able to demonstrate how your skills and
knowledge will be an asset to the company. Also, research diversity and its benefits in
the workplace, and target companies that have a record of valuing diversity.
(Source: The Job Search for International Students (The Florida State University, career.fsu.edu, revised 02/09, Pub ID:
41))
Professional Etiquette
• Be punctual. Arrive 5 to 15 minutes prior to appointment.
• Dress codes vary across the country. In the United, States dress in suits. Female wear
dress suits or pantsuits, often with accessories.
• Greetings in the United States are brief and involve a minimum of physical contact. A
firm but quick handshake, accompanied by a smile and direct eye contact, is typical
both as a greeting and as a farewell.
• Using a title such as Mr., Mrs., and Ms. and Professional title followed by the last name
this shows respect. It is best to use this form of address when first making contact with
another person, whether in writing or in person. If unsure of a woman’s marital status,
use the title "Ms.”
When should I tell an employer about my visa status?
This is a tricky question to answer and you may receive many different answers
depending on who you ask. The best thing you can do to before you even begin the
application and interviewing process is to become educated on the sponsorship
process yourself. If you can explain the simplicity of sponsorship, you increase your
liklihood of getting hired. If you are not comfortable explaining this process, then at
least make sure you have the contact information of someone who can explain this
process for you.
While you might not want to begin an interview with the question of sponsorship, you
do need to bring it up at the very least once an offer has been made to you. You
may, however, want to bring this topic up earlier in the process so the employer
doesn’t come to the end of the process, offer you the position, and only then learns of
the sponsorship issue. You may want to bring this issue up sometime near the end of a
positive first interview, or possibly, during the second interview if you are asked back.
You want to be honest about your situation and not give the employer any reason to
think you are trying to hide anything.
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
P a g e | 14 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
VII. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
• http://www.immaculata.edu/international
• http://www.myvisajobs.com/Reports/
• http://www.h1base.com/
• http://www.vpul.upenn.edu/careerservices/college/employers_hiring_foreign_nationals
.html#list
• http://www.h1visajobs.com/
• www.uniworldbp.com
• http://www.foreignborn.com/visas_imm/start_here/3employment_visa.htm
• http://www.internationalstudent.com/
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentIMMACULATA UNIVERSITY
P a g e | 15 OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
References
• www.immaculata.edu
• http://www.niu.edu/CareerServices/guides/IntlGuide.pdf
• http://www.vpul.upenn.edu/careerservices/college/employers_hiring_foreign_nationals
.html#list
• Source: The Job Search for International Students (The Florida State University,
career.fsu.edu, revised 02/09, Pub ID: 41)
• http://www.niu.edu/CareerServices/guides/IntlGuide.pdf
• http://www.udel.edu/CSC/pdfs/resumes-international.pdf
• U.S. Job Search Strategies for International Students, MIT Careers Office,
http://web.mit.edu/career/www/
• http://environment.yale.edu/current/Resources-for-International-Students/#a3
Diane Massey, Director 610-647-4400, Ext. 3501
Office of Career Development dmassey@immaculata.edu
The Bruder Center www.immaculata.edu\careerdevelopmentYou can also read
