Panel Discusses Careers for International Students
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There are a variety of ways that international students can get experience while studying in the U. S. A great place to start is working on campus. This was according to a recent panel discussion hosted by Career Services and the International Business Association.
Participating on the panel were Paul Bernal, HR Manager for Temple Inland, Mercy Renteria, an international student currently interning at Pico Energy and Pam Chapa, Interim Director of International Admissions and Services. These panelists provided students with many helpful tips, including:
Be proactive. Paul Bernal encouraged students to follow up. Many times HR recruiters are busy and do not return calls because they may have a lot of candidates. He encouraged students to “pick up the phone” and demonstrate that they are proactive and serious about working for the company.
Network. Before attaining her internship with Pico Entergy, Mercy Renteria worked with Career Services to brainstorm about potential employers who might sponsor an international student. Now that she’s an intern, she networks within the company. She wants the employer to know what an asset she would be as a permanent employee of the company.
Know your status. Pam Chapa explained that HR professionals may not hire international students because of the additional hiring challenges. She encourages students to have their paperwork ready and to have a strong idea of how the sponsorship process works. International students may learn more about international student career issues at the Learning Assistance Center, Rm. 156 or call (956) 381-2922.
“Career Services has seen an increase of international students visit our office,” says Career Advisor, Ronnie Garcia. “Our goal was to have an interactive discussion with professionals from various perspectives to better aid our international student population with career planning.”
