Job and Internship Search

Job and Internship Search

Searching for jobs or internships in the U.S. may differ considerably from what you are used to in your home country. Learn about search strategies and tools, from resumes and networking to interviewing.

 

Resume and Cover Letters

The US style for job application documents is different than the styles of many other countries. For instance, resumes do not contain photos, age or marital status. Resumes tend to be shorter than a typical C.V. (Curriculum Vitae) while cover letters are focused on the specifics of how you qualify for a specific position. Review the resources below:

 

Tips for On-Campus Employment

F-1 and J-1 students are eligible for on-campus employment. Please review the ISSS website to make sure that you meet the authorization conditions for on-campus employment prior to applying for a position. If you are unsure of your work eligibility, please check with the ISSS office. 

Consider the following about on-campus jobs:

  • International students are eligible for most student assistant hourly positions but not federally funded work study positions
  • On-campus employers include the UAlbany Libraries, Sodexo dining services, Residential Life, and Campus Recreation. Some job possibilities include campus tutor, resident assistant, athletic department parking attendant, orientation assistant or admissions tour guide

 

Tips for Off-Campus Employment

F-1 and J-1 international students are eligible for off-campus employment only with authorization from ISSS. Paid and unpaid  opportunities are an option for F-1 visa students after completing one academic year; these training experiences require Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization. Another option for off-campus employment may be Optional Practical Training (OPT), depending on the circumstances. Please visit ISSS’ employment webpage for more details. Off-campus internships and employment are opportunities to develop academic skills and experiences that will help you be more competitive for full-time positions after graduation. More information about internship opportunities can be found through the Office of Career and Professional Development Internship webpages.

  • Learn about job industries and open positions. Many employers will post and recruit for internship opportunities several semesters in advance, depending on the industry. Start learning about your specific industry early. Tools for learning about internship/job opportunities, information about industries/companies, and portals for job application:
  • Job search strategies
  • For your (prospective) employer – Hiring International Students: Employers Guide
  • Below are some tips taken from the UC San Diego Career Services Center
    • Protect Yourself! The great majority of employers are honest, but for those employers who are not, be aware of these security tips:
      • Never pay a recruiter or an employer for a job
      • Never supply bank account, social security number or credit card information
      • Never meet a potential employer at their home, meet at a public coffee shop or at a lunch restaurant
      • If the job sounds too good to be true, it probably is (examples, “no experience necessary” “ earn money fast”)
      • When you are in doubt, ask a career counselor or Google the company name with the word “scam.”
      • If you suspect a fraudulent job posting or employer, please email ISSS fore help
      • For additional resources, you can access the Federal Trade Commission  website to learn more about fraudulent job postings or how to file a complaint with your local consumer protection agency.
    • View the FBI’s Public Service Announcement on Employment Scams.

 

Interview Strategies

Consider the following tips when preparing for an interview:

  • During the interview you will be expected to verbally communicate your interest in the position, your qualifications, explain related examples of your work and show your personality.
  • Don't apologize for your accent. Make strides to improve your English skills if you are a non-native speaker but practice your interviewing skills to build your confidence.
  • Emphasize positive aspects of your international background. Certain employers are seeking to expand to global markets. Your cultural background may be an asset to these employers.
  • Practice, record and get feedback on your interview in advance

For suggestions and resources on interviewing, visit the following sites:

 

Accepting a Job Offer

  • Evaluating an Offer – carefully consider your job offer and inquire about the timeline for making a decision. Set a time to meet with the Office of Career and Professional Development to review your offer. Address any concerns with the employer and any accommodations prior making the decision. Once you accept an offer, decline other job offers as it is a conflict of interest to continue pursuing additional offers once you have accepted an offer.

 

Other Helpful Resources