Top 10 Career Strategies for Zarb MBA/MS International Students

By Lauren Moy, Associate Director- Graduate Business Career Services

Zarb Graduate Business Career Services is passionate about empowering international MBA/MS students to reach their career goals. Despite the challenges involved in the process, Zarb GBCS has helped many international students find U.S. jobs. What can you do to maximize your chances of employment in the United States?

1. Maintain a high GPA of 3.5+ and obtain at least one U.S. internship. 

During your MBA/MS program. Most F1 visa students can obtain their first internship after completing 18 credits or two academic semesters. After you land your first U.S. internship, it will be easier to land another. Many of those who have successfully landed U.S. jobs had 2-3 U.S. internships while at Zarb.

2. Develop strong English language skills (both spoken and written). 

Start early, make the most of every opportunity and use the resources below. Your improved English skills will pay off as you network and go on interviews! Some resources available to help you develop your English skills are the Hofstra Writing Center and Home Away from Home. Making friends from different cultures and participating in social events can also help you practice speaking English in a social setting!

3. Write a US Resume: 

U.S. resumes do not typically contain headshots or personal information (date of birth, nationality, gender, marriage status, etc.). Be sure to follow the templates on the GBCS website for formatting and content tips.

Show the Value of Your Work Experience in Your Home Country! Describe your work experience in your home country in a way that is relevant to U.S. employers. Look at the key words and responsibilities in job postings relevant to your major and prior experience. You may be able to incorporate some of the skills listed as bullet points in your own resume.

Highlight accomplishments and key skills. Give examples of projects you have worked on that highlight the key skills required for the job you want. Your resume should list tasks you’ve completed and emphasize any quantifiable accomplishments.

4. Visit Zarb Graduate Business Career Services each semester!

Our experienced Career Coaches can provide valuable feedback on resumes and cover letters, help with interview preparation, and provide you with optimal job/internship search strategies. Be sure to attend all the International Student career workshops we offer!

5. Be aware of cultural differences.

U.S. Employers often have different expectations of their employees than employers in other countries. To make sure you are fully aware of what might be expected of you as an employee of a U.S. company, use the international resources available on the GBCS website, as well as the GBCS WeChat group.

6. Research companies that hire international candidates.

Focus your job search on companies that are more likely to hire international students. According to a 2017 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey Report, many U.S. Companies plan to hire or are open to hiring an international candidate. The Hofstra Career Hub has a variety of resources to help you find these companies, such as GoinGlobal. It is very important to obtain valuable work experience in your major/field of interest. If you can’t find a job or internship right away in the U.S., try to find a position that will give you similar skills in your home country.

7. Network! Network! Network!

Networking is all about building professional relationships. Make it a priority to attend at least three employer and alumni networking events offered by GBCS each semester. Many of our MBA/MS students have made connections at these events that have led to internships and full-time jobs!

8. Network with 2nd year international students and international alumni.

To find Hofstra alumni, use the advanced search tools in LinkedIn’s “/alumni” feature. Alumni can provide you with great tips on finding and securing internships and jobs. International alumni can often provide inspiration for your own job search, as well as point you in the direction of companies that are prone to hiring international students.

9. Know what U.S. Employers are looking for in candidates.

Develop your skills (both technical and soft skills) and learn how to market them. A U.S. employer (especially a technology firm) may be more willing to hire you if they are having difficulty recruiting candidates with specific technical skills. These companies will expect you to have excellent soft skills in addition to your technical know-how.

Apply to global companies that value international students. These companies will appreciate your cross-cultural communication skills, global business knowledge, and ability to communicate in multiple languages.

10. Visit the International Student Affairs Office.

Educating yourself about your visa status is your responsibility, but the expert representatives at the Office of International Student Affairs who are always willing to help you stay informed.

Lastly, never give up. Stay focused on your career goals and stay positive!