Tips for your job search

1. Get your materials ready – Resume, Cover Letter, Handshake + LinkedIn profile, Connections

• Resources that may help:
  In-person, virtual, or phone career advising appointment.
  Utilize all the university’s resources – department, professor, Career Center

2. Identify potential employers

• Look for opportunities posted by Marketing Department
• On Handshake, add filters “Will sponsor or doesn’t require US work visa; Accepts CPT/OPT”
• Research companies sponsorship histories. (1), (2), (3)
• If you haven’t had prior experience, start with small and local companies; start with Handshake first, LinkedIn
  second, then other job search sites

3. Additional tips

• Upload resume/ cover letter/ portfolio to Handshake and LinkedIn profile
• Attend Career Fair & Events to expand professional connections
• Connect with professionals in your area of interest to seek advice and potential opportunities. DePaul’s Alumni Sharing Knowledge (ASK) Network is an excellent source.

Tips for the interview

1. Before the Interview

• Prepare your elevator pitch, and talking points
• Do research about company and interviewer(s). Prepare your questions.
• Schedule a practice interview with Peer Career Coaches

2. After the interview

• Follow up with a thank-you note after every interview
• Keep in touch with all interviewers though LinkedIn

3. Tips to answer the question about sponsorship

• Do not let your visa status be the focus during your interview
• Focus on your technical skills, soft skills as an international student
• Share your long-term plan with the company
• Emphasize the fact that an internship (CPT/OPT) doesn’t require any sponsorship from an employer

4. Tips to emphasize advantages of being international students

• Bilingual ability; cross-culture communication skills
• Quick problem solver, independence, high initiative and resourcefulness
• Ability to interact with diverse individuals and adapt to different environments