Join us as Coach Kwan and Younes Ben share his journey from Morocco to the USA, leading to his first full-time job as an Energy Engineer! From balancing studies and cultural integration to securing interviews and navigating the job market, Younes reveals his strategies for success. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Coach Kwan introduces the session from Chicago Botanic Garden [00:00:38] Younes introduces himself [00:01:52] Younes shares why he joined ICAway [00:03:24] Challenges Younes faced as a graduate student [00:05:07] Younes discusses his new job with CLEAResult [00:07:13] Background on Younes’ experience before moving to the USA [00:09:31] Younes highlights the ICAway community support [00:10:13] Younes’ advice for other international engineering students [00:11:39] Final congratulations and cheers
Join the ICAway community, please visit https://www.icaway.com/
In this episode of Career Guide for International Students, we are thrilled to welcome Shiyun Ye, an inspiring ICAway member, as she takes us through her incredible journey from China to the United States. Shiyun shares how she overcame financial challenges, managed multiple jobs, and navigated career setbacks—such as job offer cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic. With stories of resilience, adaptability, and strategic planning, she offers invaluable insights on securing internships and full-time roles in the financial services industry. Tune in to hear her advice on networking, mentorship, and overcoming sponsorship hurdles, along with powerful lessons on mindfulness and staying present. Whether you're an international student or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom for personal and career growth.
💡 Tune in as Karin Fischer shares insights on bridging gaps between campus partners, supporting international students, and the importance of early engagement and collaboration across campus offices.
📺 Watch the video podcast on our YouTube channel or Spotify!
🌐 Visit our website at http://www.ICAway.com
🔗 Follow Karin Fischer's work through the Latitudes Newsletter and stay connected with her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-fischer-0038ba5.
In this episode of the Career Guide for International Students podcast, host Coach Kwan Segal interviews Karin Fischer, a journalist specializing in international education. Karin, known for her work at The Chronicle of Higher Education and her Latitudes newsletter, has developed a deep passion for understanding and advocating for international students' needs.
💡 Tune in to hear about the philosophy of "compassionate compliance," the importance of collaboration across campus offices, and tips for navigating the complexities of F-1 visa regulations.
📺 Watch the video podcast on our YouTube channel or Spotify!
🌐 Visit our website at www.ICAway.com
🔗 Learn more about Josh Schoonover's work at Ask a DSO
📸 Follow Kayla O'Donnell's work on Instagram at @ualbanyisss
Welcome to Season 3, Episode 5 of
the 'Career Guide for International Students' Podcast, brought to you by ICAway! I’m your host, Kwan Segal.
In today's episode, we delve into the art of cross-cultural networking and unveil the secrets to landing a job as an international student in the US! Our special guest is Betsy Cohen, Executive Director of the St. Louis Mosaic Project of the World Trade Center-St. Louis. Betsy is a renowned advocate for international student and immigrant careers, and the author of "Welcome to the USA—You're Hired! A Guide for Foreign-Born People Seeking Jobs" and the eBook "Top Hiring Trends in 2024 for Foreign-Born People Seeking Jobs."
Join us as we explore Betsy's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into navigating the US job market.
Highlights from the Episode:
The St. Louis Mosaic Project is a regional initiative within the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership and the World Trade Center St. Louis. The project aims to transform St. Louis into the fastest-growing major metropolitan area for immigrants by 2025. It provides extensive resources and support for immigrants, fostering a welcoming community that values cultural diversity and innovation. Learn more at St. Louis Mosaic Project.
Tune in now and start building your path to success with expert guidance from Betsy Cohen. 🌍✨ #InternationalStudents #CareerAdvocate #NetworkingTips #JobSearch #HiddenJobMarket #CrossCulturalNetworking #CareerAdvice #Podcast
Join us as we delve into strategies to combat the demographic cliff in higher education with special guest Esther Benjamin, CEO of World Education Services (WES). 🌍💼
Listen in as we explore insights for international students and institutions, discuss employability, affordability, and advocacy, and hear Esther's personal journey as an international student turned global executive. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of international education!
Join our host, Kwan Segal, and special guest Attorney Art Serratelli from Serratelli Mijal PLLC as they unravel the USCIS Announcement on Strengthened Integrity Measures for the H-1B Program in the FY 2025 H-1B cap lottery season. 🎤✨ 🔍 Discover the latest insights into the H-1B process, USCIS final rules, and how these changes impact international students. Art dives deep into key dates for the FY 2025 H-1B Lottery Registration and shares essential advice for a fair chance at selection. 🗓️🌐 🤔 Concerned about the lottery system? Learn about backup plans, alternative options like STEM OPT, and gain valuable career-launching advice from Art based on his vast experience working with international students. 🌍💼 To get help finding your dream job in the US, please visit https://www.icaway.com/
This episode features an insightful conversation with Dr. Fanta Aw, Executive Director and CEO of NAFSA. 🌍 Join the discussion on Dr. Aw's remarkable journey from international student to a leader in education. 📚 Gain valuable insights on change, networking, and staying informed in the dynamic world of international education. 🌟 Plus, Dr. Aw shares advice for international students pursuing careers in the U.S. 🌐 Begin your journey by getting help finding jobs today at icaway.com! Don't miss out on this enriching discussion! #InternationalEducation #CareerAdvice #NAFSA #Podcas
To get help finding your dream job in the US, please visit https://www.icaway.com/ 🎙️ Welcome to the Season Three opener of "A Career Guide for International Students" podcast, presented by ICAway! 🌐 Join your host, Kwan Segal, as we dive into the dynamic landscape of 2024 with our special guest, former CEO of BMW Group Financial Services Asia Pacific, Alan Crooks. In this episode, we explore the pivotal role of adaptability in navigating global careers, discussing cultural adjustment, the art of balancing technical prowess and interpersonal skills for recent graduates, and invaluable advice on overcoming challenges and building resilience in the upcoming year. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that promises insights for international students and professionals alike. Don't miss out – hit play and embark on this enriching journey with us! 🚀 #CareerGuide #Adaptability #InternationalStudents #Podcast2024 [00:00:00] Why is adaptability crucial in today's global career landscape? [00:03:15] Can you share practical tips for international students on effective cultural adjustment? [00:06:30] How should recent graduates balance technical proficiency and interpersonal skills in the competitive job market? [00:10:05] Looking ahead to 2024, what advice can you offer for overcoming career obstacles and building resilience? [00:13:20] As we wrap up, any final advice for a successful career in the coming year?
To get help finding your dream job in the US, please visit https://www.icaway.com/ In this special episode, join us for a heartfelt farewell to the year 2023 as we celebrate the resilience and strength discovered through genuine connections in the world of solopreneurship. Our guests, Nannapat Sage and Meenakshi Iyer, share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs, proving that a strong support system is more than just essential—it's transformative.
To get help finding your dream job in the US, please visit https://www.icaway.com/
Join us on the ICAway Podcast for insights on landing CPT, OPT, and H-1B jobs as an international student. 🎙️ Hosted by Kwan Segal, today's guest, Martha Sidhu, a manager at KPMG, shares wisdom on embracing cultural add in the workplace. 🌍 Learn how to highlight your uniqueness and make a meaningful contribution!
TIMESTAMPS:
To get help finding your dream job in the US, please visit https://www.icaway.com/ Join us as we delve into crucial internship insights with our guest, June Huynh. Get ready to ace your internship search! 🔎🎓 #CareerGuide #InternshipTips #internationalstudents TIMESTAMPS: 🔹 0:00 Introduction 🔹 0:23 Idea #1: Host a Q&A session 🔹 0:43 Question 1: When does the summer internship recruitment typically begin for companies in the Fortune 500? 🔹 1:28 Question 2: What are the reasons and objectives behind companies' internship recruitment strategies? 🔹 2:12 Question 3: How can students stand out during the internship recruitment process? 🔹 3:08 Question 4: How long are job openings usually open for new applications, and do companies follow a specific timeline? 🔹 3:55 Question 5: Could you share information about the average number of applications your company receives each year for summer internships? 🔹 4:47 Rising Sophomore Students: What advice do you have for rising sophomore students on the types of internships they should consider? 🔹 5:29 Leetcode Questions: Which types of roles typically incorporate Leetcode questions in the candidate assessment? 🔹 6:11 International Applicants: Can you provide insights on the chances of receiving an offer in an entry-level position in a U.S. based company as an international applicant with limited industry experience?
To learn more about job search strategy for F-1 international students, visit https://www.icaway.com/ I've been getting a bunch of requests from new international grads who are on the hunt for jobs in this tough economy. And guess what else? Their OPT is about to start! So, I wanna share four cool strategies with you that can actually stop the OPT unemployment allowance clock. If you just graduated and your OPT is about to start! You have only 90 days after your OPT starts to find a job that’s related to your field of study.
What I'm going to share today is based on real stories from a few international students who have used these strategies to stop the clock. Before deciding to pursue any of these options, please remember to contact your International Student Services office to ensure eligibility.
How can you find non-profit organizations in your area to volunteer with?
One effective way is to utilize online platforms and directories that connect volunteers with non-profit organizations. Websites such as
can be great resources to find volunteer opportunities.
2. Consider seeking contract jobs.
Contract work can be a viable option for your first-year OPT. Many companies and organizations hire contractors for short-term projects or assignments.
These contract positions can provide valuable work experience and help you meet the employment requirement of your OPT period.
And sometimes, when you're a good fit for the team, you may have a chance to convert your contract role into a full-time opportunity.
3. consider reaching out to your professors for an offer letter that can potentially be considered an OPT job opportunity.
Your professors may have research projects or other academic initiatives where they could hire you as a research assistant or provide you with a job offer letter. This can be a valuable experience and help you fulfill the employment requirement during your OPT period.
4. explore the possibility of building your own business and working on OPT. Remember, these are options for you to pause the OPT clock in your first year after graduation while looking for a full-time job at your dream company.
For STEM international students who are on OPT and when you're approaching your STEM extension, your employers must be e-verified in order to utilize your STEM OPT for work in the US.
To check whether the employer is verified or not, check out the link I provided in the caption below.
Use the E-Verify search tool below to find employers who are currently enrolled in E-Verify.
https://www.e-verify.gov/about-e-verify/e-verify-data/how-to-find-participating-employers
Let's listen to this episode to receive more information on how to stop your OPT unemployment allowance clock.
Think Big & Live Your Dream!
Coach Kwan, ICAway 8 Simple Steps to Write an Apple Podcast Review!
Disclaimer:
Please note that the information provided here is of a general nature and should not be considered as legal immigration advice. We are unable to assess individual circumstances and provide specific guidance on immigration matters. It is essential to consult with your international student services office or a qualified immigration professional to ensure eligibility and obtain accurate advice tailored to your specific situation.
To learn more about job search strategy for F-1 international students, visit https://www.icaway.com/
I just received a message from an international student whose OPT will begin in less than a month and have only 90 days of unemployment to stay in the U.S. The student asked if I could help them because they've applied to multiple job postings online but haven't received any interview invitations. The student is feeling discouraged due to news of layoffs and hiring freezes, and they don't know what action to take to find an OPT job.
If you or someone you know is in a similar situation, here are some actionable steps that can be taken to search for an OPT job opportunity within a short period of time.
Firstly, it's important to ensure that you don't exceed the OPT 90-day unemployment allowance without a job offer in place and risk losing your F-1 status.
So you're probably wondering about the 90-day unemployment allowance and how it works.
Optional Practical Training or OPT means F-1 students’ work authorization to work off-campus.
your work authorization after your graduation is called a Post-Completion OPT
Say you already graduated and you are eligible for OPT. You’ll have a limited time to be unemployed when your OPT starts.
For post-completion OPT, you have 90 days of unemployment, and for STEM OPT, you have 90 days plus an additional 60 days during the 24-month STEM OPT extension period. It's important to note that this 90-day unemployment period counts both weekdays and weekends.
Even if you travel outside the US, your time spent outside the country will still count as unemployment
However, don't worry, there are options available to you if you’re in your first year of OPT. If this is your first year OPT, Did you know that the term "employed" is not as specific as you might think?
Whether it's a paid or unpaid job, finding a job related to your course of study can help stop the 90-day unemployment allowance clock.
Don't forget to reach out to your International Student Services Office at your college or university to ensure that the job is compatible with your OPT.
If you are under a time crush, it's worth considering options such as temporary jobs or volunteering positions that will allow you to remain in the country.
The requirement is that the work must be at least 20 hours per week. Just be sure to check with your International Student Services office to ensure that you are eligible for these options.
It can be tough for students to find jobs within three months, and without connections and a personal coach, your search time may extend to an average of five to six months. Therefore, it's important to maintain your status with a backup plan and continue your full-time job search.
In short, if your OPT is about to start, please develop a backup plan and find options that allow you to stay past the 90-day unemployment allowance period.
Also, It's a smart move to hold onto your OPT unemployment allowance time for unexpected situations like losing your job or transitioning between jobs.
This way, you'll have a safety net to fall back on when you need it most. It's better to have a backup plan in place, just in case.
Remember to keep your International Student Services office in the loop and explore all options, including part-time work, temporary jobs, and volunteering positions.
With these strategies in mind, you can increase your chances of finding employment and maintaining your legal status in the U.S. Now that we have talked about the importance of not exceeding the OPT 90-day unemployment allowance, let's focus on the steps you can take to build your career brand and increase your chances of finding employment.
Let's listen to this episode and let me know if you have any questions. Think Big & Live Your Dream!
Coach Kwan
To learn more about job search strategy for F-1 international students, visit https://www.icaway.com/ I received an email from an F-1 international student whom I had been mentoring, and my heart sank as soon as I read the subject line: "Didn't get selected for H-1B." I could feel their disappointment and frustration. They had been hoping to stay in the US and work at their dream job, but now that opportunity seemed to have slipped away.
I reminded them that they still had their STEM OPT and could try again next year. I also suggested that they speak with an immigration attorney to learn more about other visa options.
I hope to share this story and encourage others to advocate for international students and propose changes to the H-1B system. We need to create a fair system that recognizes the valuable contributions that international students make to our society and the American economy.
It's time to recognize their contributions and create a system that values them for the incredible assets they are. There are several ways to advocate for international students with immigration policy such as writing petitions to raise awareness about issues that impact international students and encourage policy changes that support them. Please check out the list of organizations that regularly provide channels for you to write such petitions.
The current H-1B visa system does not fully leverage the potential of international students, and we need to change that.
International students bring a wealth of knowledge, diverse perspectives, and critical skills that are essential to American businesses, especially in a post-pandemic world where innovation and adaptability are crucial. It's time to recognize their contributions and create a system that values them for the incredible assets they are.
Think Big & Live Your Dream!
Coach Kwan
To learn more about job search strategy for F-1 international students, visit https://www.icaway.com/
Are you looking for the best way to get noticed at career fairs?
Attending a career fair can be an exciting opportunity for international students to make connections and find potential employers. But it can also be daunting if you don’t know what questions are appropriate to ask. In this podcast, I will discuss the right questions to ask and the ones that should be avoided when attending a career fair.
Let's listen to this episode and I hope you'll enjoy the tips I provided in this episode to help make your career fair visit a successful one.
Don’t forget to think ahead and research the companies beforehand, and be sure to ask the right questions when you meet employers.
Think Big & Live Your Dream!
Coach Kwan
To learn more about job search strategy for F-1 international students, visit https://www.icaway.com/
Summer internships can be a great way for international students to gain valuable work experience, build their professional networks, and gain a deeper understanding of the industry they are interested in.
Not only do internships provide hands-on experience, they can also help you determine if a particular career or industry is the right fit for you. This is especially important for international students, as you may have limited opportunities to gain professional experience before you graduate.
First, you need to make sure that you understand the rule of CPT which is your work authorization for F-1 international student
There are a few important things you need to keep in mind when requesting your CPT.
First and foremost, your internship must be directly related to your field of study and must be an integral part of your academic program.
This means this work experience should be something that will help further your education and career goals.
To be eligible for an internship, you must be in valid F-1 status and enrolled in a full-time program of study at an accredited school.
You must also have completed one full academic year of study before participating in the internship.
Once you've met these requirements, the next step is to get your internship authorized.
This is where the Designated School Official (DSO) at your school comes in.
They will issue the necessary documents and give you the green light to participate in the internship.
One thing to keep in mind is that for CPT, you'll need to have a job offer before you request the authorization.
This is different from OPT, where you can apply before you have a job offer. The process of getting CPT authorization may take 1-2 weeks or more, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Listen to this episode to find out how to land a summer internship in just 60 days.
NOTE: Attending events hosted outside of your campus to expand your network. Join a professional organization such as Ascend, SHRM, Prospanica, or ALPFA.
To learn more about job search strategy for F-1 international students, visit https://www.icaway.com/
In this episode, I want to kill the myth that having a good GPA guarantees a job offer, and I'll share some insights into what employers really look for.
As an international student, having a high GPA is an outstanding achievement, but it's essential to understand that it's not the only factor employers consider.
According to the most recent National Association of Colleges and Employers survey, the number of employers using GPA to screen candidates is declining
In 2019, around 73% of employers used to consider GPA as an important factor, but now only 46% of the employers who took part in the survey use GPA as a selection criterion.
GPA is just one of the factors employers consider while evaluating job candidates.
They feel that it provides an indication of the candidate's level of dedication and ability to perform in a structured setting,
but it's not the only thing that matters.
For entry-level positions, GPA can be an important consideration, but it's definitely not the be-all and end-all.
The weight that employers give to GPA varies depending on the job and industry.
For instance, in fields like engineering or finance, a high GPA may hold more weight, while in areas like marketing or advertising, hands-on experience, and a strong portfolio may be more valuable.
Overall, many companies are now placing more emphasis on a candidate's skills, experience, and potential than their GPA.
They look for candidates who have relevant work experience, a strong skill set, and a passion for their work.
In addition, many companies place a high value on candidates who have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with others.
They may consider a candidate's extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and overall fit with their company culture.
They also consider problem-solving skills, adaptability, and communication skills, which are critical for success in any job.
To learn more about job search strategy for F-1 international students, visit https://www.icaway.com/
In this episode, we will be discussing how to effectively use work experience gained outside of the US to secure job opportunities in America.
Contrary to popular belief, US employers are interested in more than just work experience gained within the US.
I know this firsthand because when I first arrived in the US back in 2014, many people told me that my ten years of work experience in Thailand wouldn't be valuable here.
Despite that, I was able to secure a six-figure salary job using that same experience.
I'm here to share with you how you can do the same.
First, it's important to be your own advocate.
Have confidence in your skills and abilities, and believe that you can be a valuable asset to a potential employer.
Next, focus on effectively highlighting your international work experience on your resume.
Use the A-P-R method: Action, People, and Result.
The first element is Action - Action refers to what you did, for example, managing a project that impacted 3,000 employees nationally.
Be as specific as possible, and consider mentioning the purpose of the project and your contribution to it.
The second element is People - People refers to who you worked with, such as your supervisors, coworkers, or your clients.
Showcasing your ability to work well with others is a common skill employers look for,
so make sure to include that if it's relevant.
The last and most important element is the result.
Result refers to the outcome of your actions, and it's ideal to provide data or statistics to support it.
For example, you could mention that the project resulted in 100% user acceptance.
Be sure to highlight any major achievements you accomplished in your previous roles.
It's important to focus on skills and experience that are relevant to the industry you're targeting, regardless of where the experience was gained.