| Topic Name: |
International student about to graduate seeks advice |
| Message Name: |
Sdchew |
| Date Posted: |
05/14/2004 |
| In Reply To: |
After graduation, every international student can apply for the OPT (Optional Practical Training) which is technically a work permit for a year, in a job relating to your major. It may be too late for you to apply for the CPT now since you have to be enrolled as a full-time student in school when you're on that.
I graduated last May and is currently on my OPT. However, I had to luck finding a job so I'm going back to my home country this May. My major was electrical engineering but even job offers in that field are difficult to come by these days, even for American women apparently. From what I've observed, having an internship or a relating work experience under your belt is the best asset for job searching these days, even more than the GPA. Even research experiences count less than internships. I did other "expand your horizon" type programs in the summer, and did more university related work/activities (research, grading work, community service, student org.) during the school year so I'm at a disadvantage but they were conscious choices, and I don't regret them. Try unpaid internships or volunteering to get your foot in the door, if you can afford it. Work unrelated to your major (or intended industry) counts very little too at the moment.
I was advised to apply for my start date as late as possible (about 2 months from the date of application), unless you have already secured a job. Check with your university's international student services office.
Good luck |
| Message: |
My husband is an electrical engineer and works for one of the leading Semiconductor firms. His group is currently hiring and they're looking for electrical engineers. If you'd like I can pass on your resume to him. Email it to me at Jobseeker1000@hotmail.com
Vidya
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