CANCELLED: In light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, the Employer Panel and Luncheon with Career Readiness Tips has been cancelled.

Which organizations are hiring international candidates? Do I meet their requirements? Will this be a good fit for me?

These are just a few of the questions students often ask as they consider full-time employment, internships, or assistantships. However, the number and types of questions often multiply for those from abroad who are studying in the United States.

“In today’s competitive job market, finding a job can be overwhelming for many graduating students. This can be even more difficult for international students who are interested in employment in the United States,” said Career Center Senior Assistant Director Maureen Roach.

The Career Center’s Cultural Career Network Program (CCNP) and the International Student and Scholar Services seek to address some of those concerns by hosting the International Student Career Series this spring. The three-part program specifically provides Illinois State’s international students with career support to help them remain competitive and increase their confidence in the job market.

The International Student Career Series is held at 110P Student Services Building and includes:

Guest speaker and immigration attorney Thomas Arkell

Immigration Attorney Thomas Arkell

  • Entrepreneurial Insights, Start-up Best Practices, and Immigration Options for Entrepreneurs, January 31, 2–4 p.m.: Students learn from a variety of experts on how to start a new business in the United States. RSVP requested.
  • Life After OPT (Optional Practical Training), February 13, 2–3 p.m.: Immigration expert and Dunn Law Firm attorney Thomas Arkell discusses life after OPT and the application procedures (specifically H-1B visas), and how students should go about applying.
  • CANCELLED: Employer Panel and Luncheon with Career Readiness Tips, March 25, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.: Students hear about interviewing, the value of networking, and utilizing social media in the job search. Ask questions and learn about the application and interviewing process to gain a better understanding of the challenges and successes in obtaining an internship and full-time job in the United States. Registration is required.

Students may attend any one session or the entire series.

The International Student Career Series is an example of Illinois State’s commitment to diversity, and the Career Center’s mission of assisting all Illinois State students with developing, evaluating, and implementing career decisions.

The Career Center’s Cultural Career Network Program (CCNP) prepares students for the workplace in areas of networking and career awareness. CCNP encourages students of diverse backgrounds to participate in a variety of events designed to connect them with employers, provides resources about available internship and career opportunities, and supports Illinois State University’s Educate ● Connect ● Elevate strategic plan.