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Take Advantage of International Student & Scholar Services

The International Student & Scholar Services office is dedicated to welcoming and supporting international students at the University of Utah. They are the go-to resource for international students and are the best source of information about visas, social security numbers, current government policies, legal work requirements, and more.

Visit the ISSS Website

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

This is usually for current students with an internship or another opportunity that provides academic credit.)

Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)

This usually for graduating students seeking temporary employment experience within their program of study after completing the program.

Meet Your Career Coach

Our career coaches specialize in working with specific majors and industries and offer personalized guidance. They can help you build your resume, prepare for networking events and job interviews, and more.
Schedule A Meeting

Find An Interview Outfit

Borrow interview-ready clothing for free from the Cintas Career Closet!

Check Out The Career Closet
Get Outfit Inspiration on Pinterest

Learn How To Write A Resume

Get advice from career coaches on building a resume.

Watch The Resume Video Series

 

 

Learn How To Write A Cover Letter

Get advice from career coaches on writing a cover letter.

Watch The Cover Letter Video Series

 

More Tips for International Students

Use the Visa Sponsorship Dashboard

The Visa Sponsor Dashboard makes it easier for international students to find companies that are likely to sponsor H1B visas. The dashboard lists all approved H1B applications in the U.S., showing which companies have offered sponsorship and for which roles. This tool gives you valuable insight into potential employers, helping you focus your job search on companies familiar with the H1B process.

View The Dashboard

Check out this blog post with advice from an international student at the University of Utah.

Internships for International Students: A Comprehensive Guide

    • You will be expected to get to work on time and to arrive for meetings on time.
    • The clothing you’re expected to wear will depend on the workplace. Some will expect more formal attire than others. For help finding professional clothing and outfit tips, visit our Career Closet.
    • In many workplaces it is normal for managers and employees to eat together, share ideas, and even disagree respectfully.
    • In most workplaces, you’ll be expected to answer emails within 24-48 hours. Some places may expect faster responses, so make sure you understand what your manager expects.
    • Give people time to respond to your messages and emails before following up.
    • Many US employers will expect you to make eye contact during interactions.
    • Networking is one of the most important parts of job hunting.
    • Work with your career coach to practice introducing yourself to employers. Your coach can also help you craft a pitch that will help you highlight your strengths.
    • Companies at career fairs do not hire on the spot, but you can make connections there and follow up afterward on LinkedIn and through email.
    • Professional connections can play a huge factor in getting a job.
    • Gain references and experiences while still in college.
    • Get out of your comfort zone and build friendships and relationships with a wide variety of people.
    • Research companies ahead of career fairs and events to find out which ones hire international students.
    • Be ready for a variety of interview types including phone interviews, pre-recorded video interviews, presentations, technical interviews, panel interviews, in-person interviews, and virtual interviews.
    • Wear professional clothing to job interviews, even if it is virtual.
    • Make eye contact with the person interviewing you and shake their hand when you greet them.
    • Be prepared for multiple rounds of interviews.
    • Send a follow-up thank you email within 24 hours of your interview.
    • Don’t be afraid to highlight your accomplishments during your interview.
    • Your career coach can help you find workshops to build your negotiation skills.
    • A job offer should be in writing and should include the following information:
      • Base salary (your main income)
      • Benefits (health insurance, 401(k), paid time off)
      • Bonuses or signing incentives
      • Start date and location
      • Sponsorship status
      • Work schedule (on-site, hybrid, remote)
  • Job scams have unfortunately become more common and more sophisticated. Use these tips to identify scams and protect your information.

    • Job postings should have detailed information about the role. If the post is too vague, it may not be a real position.
    • Be wary of job posts that seem too good to be true. You’re likely correct.
    • Legitimate job posts and communications will not have a lot of spelling and grammar errors.
    • Legitimate employers will not do interviews exclusively through chat.
    • Avoid job offers that ask for an immediate decision or commitment.
    • Don’t accept an offer for a job you didn’t apply to.
    • Legitimate employers will not ask for money. They will also not ask for sensitive personal info until after you’ve been hired.