Before searching for a position through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT), consult with the Center for Global Engagement (CGE) to discuss your eligibility, the immigration criteria, and the application process. Contact the CGE via email at internationaloffice@rmu.edu. Refer to the CGE’s International Student Employment website for more information. To apply for academic credit for an internship through the Academic Internship Program, please refer to the Application Process for International Students.
In EVERY case, the Center for Global Engagement must also be notified BEFORE you begin working (internationaloffice@rmu.edu).
Search Strategies
- Since the job search process can differ by country, utilize Career Center resources to become familiar with standards and expectations in the U.S. for resumes, cover letters and interviewing.
- Market the unique strengths you offer as an international student such as proficiency in multiple languages, global/ cultural awareness, adaptability to new environments, flexibility, problem-solving and resourcefulness.
Identify occupations/fields in demand to target your search. Pittsburgh Resources:
- Pittsburgh Business Times (latest news about Pittsburgh businesses)
- Pittsburgh Technology Council (provides a link to TEQ Magazine, the definitive resource for and about technology and emerging growth companies across southwestern PA, and the Pittsburgh Tech Map, featuring more than 600 tech companies by category)
Consider geographic areas with a low unemployment rate (especially for full-time positions/OPT).
- Unemployment Rates for States (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Unemployment Rates for Large Metropolitan Areas (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Review the CPDC’s Safe Online Job Hunting Quick Tips.
Handshake
- Log in to your Handshake profile.
- Click the “Jobs” link and enter your search criteria. On the initial page, you may enter a job title, employer or keyword in the search box. Click “All Filters” for additional search options including Work Authorization:
– Jobs that do not require US work authorization
– Jobs that are eligible for US visa sponsorship
– Jobs that are open to candidates with Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and/or Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Additional Sites
- Identify companies/organizations of interest by using the Employers section of Handshake. You may search by Keyword, Location, Employer Size, and Industry.
- Learn about organizations through the Pittsburgh Business Times Book of Lists which contains a list of the largest companies/organizations for various fields.
- Target global organizations including organizations from your home country that operate in the United States.
- Check organization websites and look for links such as “Careers” or “Employment” to search for internship or job postings. Sometimes these links may appear in a “Contact Us” section. Apply to any postings of interest.
- If you are interested in the organization but do not see any postings, consider contacting them to inquire about options. Most websites will include a general contact email address. Send a professional email introducing yourself, your educational background and any related work experience/projects/skills. Indicate your interest in the organization and inquire if they have any internship opportunities or positions available.
- 2019 Top 200 Employers for CPT Students (Source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
- 2019 Top 200 Employers for OPT and STEM OPT Students (Source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
- H-1B Employer Data Hub – search employers who have submitted petitions to employ H-1B non-immigrant workers (Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services)
- Speak with your networking contacts to learn about career options and ask for internship and job search advice.
- Start with people you know: family, friends, professors, advisors, staff, neighbors, etc.
- Join professionally focused clubs and organizations on campus and attend meetings. Ask other student members about their internship experiences. Search Revolution for RMU clubs and organizations.
- Consider joining a professional association related to your field and attending local meetings. Ask faculty for suggestions of professional associations related to your major. Some associations also share job postings.
- Utilize LinkedIn to connect with alumni and other professionals working in your field.
- Refer to the Networking Quick Tips and the Job Search Curriculum (networking) in Big Interview for more info.
- Refer to the “Events” link on Handshake for a list of upcoming job fairs and networking events.
- Research the employers who will be attending.
- Practice how you will introduce yourself.
- Make sure your resume is tailored and error-free.