91̽»¨

In the Loop Newsletter

Feb 19, 2025

Dear Huskies,

Navigating professional development is both exciting and challenging, and as international students, you bring unique perspectives and valuable skills toÌýtheÌý³Ù²¹²ú±ô±ð.ÌýInÌýthis newsletter, we’re sharing strategies and resources to support your career exploration, planning and implementation, helping you move toward your personal and professional aspirations.

Career exploration begins with self-reflection.ÌýTheÌýUniversity of California, San Francisco has developedÌýaÌý³ó±ð±ô±è´Ú³Ü±ôÌýÌýto guide youÌýinÌýidentifying your core interests, skill sets and values. Once you’ve gained clarity, you can begin brainstorming potential career options. If you’re looking to deepen your knowledge or exploreÌýaÌýnew field, take advantage ofÌý—covering topics from project management to data science, with new content added regularly.

Once you’ve identifiedÌýatÌýleast one area of interest, it’s essential to refine your professional materials. YourÌýresume/CV and LinkedIn profileÌýare crucial toolsÌýinÌýshowcasing your skills and experience. DependingÌýonÌýyour field, you may also want to developÌýaÌýcreative portfolio. Start early and update these materials regularly as you gain new experiences.ÌýTheÌýÌýoffers workshops and resourcesÌýonÌýresume building, cover letter writing and LinkedIn profile optimization. Refer to their website forÌýaÌýrefresher!

Internships provide valuable hands-onÌýexperience and insights into your chosen field.ÌýAÌýstrategic approach can help you findÌýtheÌýright opportunities. Here are some tips to refine your internship search:

• Use multiple platforms:ÌýExplore platforms likeÌý,Ìý,ÌýÌýand specialized job boards for your field.
• Set alerts: Enable job alerts for internshipsÌýinÌýyour desired field, location or companies.
• Use targeted keywords: Refine your search with specific terms like “marketing internship remote,” “summer software engineering intern,” or “research assistant internship.”
• Keep track of progress: KeepÌýaÌýrecord ofÌýtheÌýpositions you apply for, including deadlines and contact information, to stay organized.

Remember, internship opportunities can come from various sources, including networking. Building professional relationships can open doors to roles that aren’t publicly advertised. Networking isÌýtheÌýprocess of building and nurturing relationships with professionals, peers and others who can offer guidance, share insights or connect you with opportunities.ÌýInÌýaddition to your friends and mentorsÌýatÌýUW, consider schedulingÌýinformational interviewsÌý—20 to 30 minute conversations with professionals for insights and advice (learn moreÌý). 91̽»¨offers an extensive network of alumniÌýinÌývarious sectors of employment. Check outÌý, your specific departmental listservs and mentorship programs for more ways to connect.

Securing an internship does not stopÌýatÌýtheÌýapplication. Interview preparation is another key component. Before each interview, we recommend you to researchÌýtheÌýorganization, practice common interview questions (learn more aboutÌýtheÌýÌýmethod) and gain real-life practice via events likeÌýtheÌýupcomingÌýÌýfor low-stakes conversations with recruiters.

For international students, securing an internship involves additional logistical steps, such as obtaining work authorization. To learn more about timelines and requirements of work authorization, make sure to check out online resources, webinars and consultation opportunities withÌýtheÌý.

Your journey as an international student is filled with opportunities forÌýlearning, growth and success. By staying proactive and leveraging available resources, you’ll be well-prepared to achieve your career aspirations. Professional development takes time, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Consider formingÌýaÌýcareer planning group with peers to share insights and support each other alongÌýtheÌýway.

As always, CIRCLE is here to advocate, engage, and support youÌýatÌýUW. Feel free to visit usÌýinÌý250 Schmitz Hall every Monday through Friday from 10Ìýa.m. to 4 p.m. for office hours. DropÌýinÌýand talk toÌýaÌýfriend!