Learn from alumni, staff, and special speakers about navigating career options in the U.S. as an international student! Speakers and panelists will discuss topics such as:

• Avenues toward long-term authorized employment
• Cover letters and resumés
• Job interview and recruitment skills
• Networking and interpersonal communication
• Actionable steps to take to maximize opportunities while maintaining nonimmigrant status
• Career-planning resources at Rice and beyond

To receive Zoom Webinar information for both days of the event, RSVP via Handshake.

Wednesday, November 16, 12-3pm (Central Time)

Welcome – 12:00pm (OISS-IC)

As international students on the F and J visas, your primary intent is currently not to work in the United States. You are in the U.S. to earn a degree from Rice, and OISS is here to help you maintain your student status.

But we understand that many of you face unique challenges regarding the future pursuit of U.S. employment.

As part of International Education Week (IEW), we are bringing together staff, alumni, and experts to address some of these issues.

This event will highlight some of the transferrable skills you should develop during your studies that will increase your chances of success on the U.S. job market—when the time comes.

Please take advantage of the many resources you have on campus! (But always talk with OISS before engaging in any off-campus experience.)

"The U.S. Job & Internship Search for International Students” – 12 - 12:30pm

Gain insight on how to conduct an effective job or internship search, including what you might be missing and what tools and resources are available to help you throughout the process.

By the end of the workshop, you will be able to:

• Gain practical tips and advice on how to conduct an effective and efficient internship or job search in the U.S.
• Develop an internship or job search plan of action to maximize your success
• Understand hiring timelines for industries of interest to you
• Explore resources and programs available at your fingertips to simplify the process of finding great opportunities

“Our Stories: Alumni Share Keys to Career Success” – 12:30 - 1pm

Securing a job in the U.S. can be challenging for international students. While maintaining immigration status, you must navigate cultural differences and create connections in a foreign country.

In this panel, recent alumni will share their experiences, strategies, and insights about how they are succeeding in the U.S. job market!

“Beyond OPT: The H-1B Visa, Explained” – 1 - 1:30pm

The H-1B visa allows employers to hire nonimmigrant employees in specialty occupations. In this presentation, you’ll learn about the following:

• Key H-1B terminology
• Lottery & application process
• Benefits & obligations of the H-1B
• Alternatives to the H-1B

“Write to Impress: How to Write a Successful Cover Letter” – 1:30 - 2pm

The workshop will discuss the genre of cover letters for a variety of purposes. In particular the workshop will discuss how to write compelling letters that clearly articulate and highlight the candidate's academic and professional achievements and successfully illustrate why the candidate is right person for the job.

“Networking as an International Student” – 2 - 2:30pm

Learn about what networking looks like in American culture, its impact on your career, and how to do it authentically.

• What is networking & why is it important?
• Where do I start?
• Do’s and Don’ts
• Tools & resources for effective networking

“Humble, Hungry, and Smart: How Will Hiring You Make My Job Easier?” – 2:30 - 3pm

How should you present yourself when seeking a job? (Be humble, hungry, and smart!)

How do you accomplish this in written materials? (Answer the following: Why them? Why you? Why now?)

Now that you have all the answers, Rachel Toor will describe the mistakes you may not know you’re making when looking for a job.

Note: keynote speaker presentations represent the views and experiences of those who speak, not necessarily those of OISS.

Thursday, November 17, 5-6pm (Central Time)

“What Every International Student Should Know About U.S. Employment”

Are you interested in learning how H-1B sponsorship happens from the inside?

Dan Beaudry, the former head of campus recruiting at Monster.com, shares the potent job search system used by many international students to find US employment.

H-1B's are won in ways you likely don't expect.

What you'll discover in this presentation may surprise you!

Note: keynote speaker presentations represent the views and experiences of those who speak, not necessarily those of OISS.

For more information on all International Education Week events, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/iew.