Career Services > Students > International Students

You've worked very hard for your academic and professional success, but it can be very challenging and difficult to find employment in the U.S.

Everyone is well aware of your extremely high level of knowledge and skills. Your talent is highly desirable, however, many companies are unable to hire international students because of immigration laws and challenges.

Be sure to be as well prepared for opportunities as possible by visiting Career Services. Both the Learning Center and Career Advisors can help. Also consider attending Career Services' career and professional development seminars and workshops. Attend CareerFEST events and take advantage of the opportunity to learn about a number of industries, as well as to network with company representatives.

Résumé and Cover Letters for U.S. Audience

Learn how to write effective résumés and cover letters in the Career Services Learning Center sponsored by DTE Energy, in a one-on-one meeting with a Career Advisor and take advantage of CareerFEST, and Résumé Blitz sessions.

Interview Strategies

Understand expectations and learn what to expect in a typical interview by U.S. companies. You'll usually encounter a behavioral type interview, and you can find examples of questions and just answer them using the STAR method. Be sure to practice with Learning Center coaches, Career Advisors and during mock interviews.

Phone Interviews

Many companies require students to go through a phone interview before moving into the face-to-face phase. These types of interviews have specific challenges and best practices. Our Learning Center coaches and Career Advisors are available for support / see phone interview webpage.

Utilizing LinkedIn for your Job Search

LinkedIn is a powerful networking and job search tool. Discuss strategies for an effective profile, as well as how to best utilize this expansive and effective professional networking platform for your job search.

See our LinkedIn page for more helpful tips!

Co-ops and Internships

Career Services oversees the Cooperative Education Program. This program is available to all undergraduate and graduate students and provides university credits for professional work experience in your field.

Eligibility

With an F-1 status, you may be eligible to work as a co-op through Curricular Practical Training (CPT). While co-ops vary in length, the co-op period should align with the university semesters. You're are eligible for co-ops and internships after being enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year. Co-ops are only available prior to the completion of your degree program. You must be in good academic and social standing. Credit is earned through a combination of experience and an online course requiring discussions, written responses, evaluations, and final reports. Employment is approved by your academic advisor and must directly relate to your major. Register for full-time cooperative education credits (undergraduates two credits; graduate students one credit) through Career Services.

Process

Paperwork for the Cooperative Education Program is available online or in Career Services. A checklist, informational form, and Cooperative Education Agreement (to be signed by employer) is included the packet. Completed paperwork should be submitted to Career Services (by email or in person) along with a copy of the offer letter. The offer letter should include terms “co-op” or “internship” plus start and end dates. Anticipate three weeks for processing after you submit paperwork.