International career resources

Overview

Many international students are interested in seeking employment in the United States following graduation. As an international student, you should be aware that this process can be very difficult given US Immigration laws. The job search process is seldom easy for anyone, but for international students it can be especially confusing.

This collection of job search strategies has been created to give our International students some specific tips about the employment process and the hiring complexities associated with obtaining the necessary sponsorship.  The websites listed below, along with GoinGlobal and MyWorldAbroad, are specifically designed to assist International Students with their career search:

• American Immigration Network–The United States Immigration services for individuals, business and organizations by a team of experienced, licensed immigration attorneys. Complete immigration do-it-yourself kits
• Foreign Labor Certification–Allows you to view the H1B Labor Certification Database to identify employers that do not have policies that prohibit them from interviewing or hiring international applicants seeking sponsorship.
• Foreign MBA–Specifically targeted to international MBA students. 
• MyVisaJobs–Allows users to search for companies (by keyword or industry) that have recently filed for H1B visas. 
• The World Factbook–The World Factbook provides cultural and historic information for 267 world entities. This resource can be excellent for students who are considering working abroad, but want to know more about countries of interest.
• VisaDoor–Provides information on companies that have filed for H1B visas.​

Overview

International careers may involve any of the following:

• Living abroad on a long-term basis (1 year or more)
• Short-term experiences working abroad (internships, volunteering — two to 12 months)
• Traveling internationally for work but based in the U.S. (could range from one week to one month)
• Living and working domestically with international partners

What skills are important for a career abroad?

• High tolerance for change/stress
• Ability to function well in ambiguous situations
• Self confidence
• Strong intercultural communication and people skills
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Sincere interest in other cultures and international work

How can I prepare for a career abroad? 

Explore international work.

• Do some self-assessment: Identify your strengths/weaknesses — what skills do you have/need to develop?
• Explore international aspects of your career interests.
• Research international organizations or firms: Identify companies who collaborate with foreign partners, do overseas trade or have branches abroad.
• Network: Use LinkedIn, Business Career Services and the KU Mentoring platform to identify alumni abroad.

Get international experience.

• Study abroad: Scholarships are available to KU business students who study abroad.
• Travel independently.
• Volunteer abroad.
• Interact with international students, faculty, guests.
• Explore international internships.

Build international knowledge.

• Take a foreign language.
• Attend conferences and professional events at KU that allow you to learn about business practices in other countries.
• Enroll in courses on the history and culture of other nations, as well as international business courses.
• Follow international issues, news.
• Meet and build relationships with individuals from different backgrounds and countries.
• When confronted with differences, choose curiosity, not judgment.
• Use resources like Expatica to learn from expats living abroad on how they navigated finding work, housing and a social life in a new country. 

Find more information about how to explore global business ideas and experiences through the school’s study abroad office.