International Students
At Boston University, we are committed to supporting and connecting international students to internships that enhance their academic journey and professional growth. The Internship Gateway is designed to help you access the resources needed to navigate the internship search process with confidence. Below, you will find a guide to finding your career path as an international student at Boston University.
- Start with understanding US work authorization rules, your eligibility, and the process through the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO).
- Use our Career Development Cycle to build a plan of action, from identifying interests and setting goals to applying to positions. Explore available resources to identify employers and roles of interest.
- Use available career tools and platforms to polish your resume (VMock), practice interviewing, and apply (Handshake).
Building the skills that will help you navigate applications, networking, and interviews can start with some preliminary preparation.
One valuable opportunity to enhance these skills is through the International Student Workshop Series. This series is designed to support international students in navigating the unique challenges and opportunities of building a successful career in the U.S.. Through interactive sessions, students will gain valuable insights and strategies for professional networking, mastering the U.S. interviewing process, and conducting an effective internship and job search. Whether you’re new to the American workplace or looking to sharpen your skills, this series offers expert guidance tailored to your needs. Join us to boost your confidence and career readiness!
Workshops are offered once per semester.
Set Career Goals
Not sure how to choose? Use the self-discovery step in the Center for Career Development’s Career Development Cycle to begin identifying your interests.
Practice Talking About Your Strengths
If you have a hard time talking about yourself and your strengths, you are not alone. This is an important skill for both networking and interviewing. There’s no single way to practice this, but here are a few steps that can help.
- Develop an elevator pitch (or professional introduction) for use in networking conversations and interviews.
- Make a list of your skills, experience, and other strengths. For ideas, explore the skills needed for different careers with What Can I Do With This Major?
Build English Fluency
If not fluent in English, work on your language and writing skills. BU has a number of resources to help with these, including the COM Writing Center, the Educational Resource Center’s Writing Assistance, and the English Language Conversation Group.
Building Career Skills
From resumes/CVs and cover letters to interviewing and evaluating offers, there are numerous career skills that you can learn long before you need them. Explore the Center for Career Development’s guides.
Experience is important, but it includes so much more than internships and jobs. Most employers consider a more holistic view of your qualifications, taking into account your skills, knowledge, and career readiness, as well as your experience.
Volunteering
Explore the options available through the Community Service Center.
Experiential Programs and Opportunities
Browse the extensive list of options at BU, including CCD-funded internships.
Student Activities
With more than 400 student groups to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
Study Abroad
In addition to expanding your global experience, many BU Study Abroad programs incorporate internships or other hands-on experience.
Campus Employment
Explore the options available for working on campus, starting with the Student Employment Office.
Research
Talk to your professors about any possible opportunities; undergraduates can also explore the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Office (UROP).
Fellowships
Explore the options supported by BU’s Fellowships & Scholarships office, including programs for before and after graduation.
Work in the United States
Finding post-graduation employment in the United States requires advance planning, including working with the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) to obtain CPT or OPT work authorization.
Once you begin job searching, use Interstride and Vault to explore employers who have previously sponsored employees with H1B visas. Browse our list of external resources for some additional suggestions on finding opportunities.
Additional Education
If you are thinking about another degree program, explore our guide to additional education, including information about the application process as well as other important considerations.