Have you read Job Searching for International Students, Part 1? If not, check it out here.
It’s no surprise — Applying to jobs can be stressful! According to some sites, it can take between 21-80 applications to secure a job offer. Perseverance is a natural part of the job application process, and rejection letters do not equal failure. We have all been there!
By starting early when it comes to reflecting on career goals and values, creating strong application materials, and researching options, you can be better prepared for success. While the following timeline is geared for international students, it can also apply to U.S. students.
Internship & Full-time Job Search Timeline
The process varies by academic program, career field, organization size, and other factors. Here is a sample timeline for a two-year master’s program. Let’s say you want to find a summer internship after the first academic year and secure a job after graduation. Here’s some general guidance based on this author’s experience. (Everyone’s time frame will look slightly different!)
Here is the complete listing of things you can do with links to relevant resources:
Fall Semester
September/October:
- Attend career fairs and workshops (check our website and Tufts Handshake for event listings)
- Go to different employer showcases and info sessions (shared through Friedman emails as well the Block Career Center website and Handshake)
- Work on resume/CV and cover letters
November/December:
- Reach out to alumni and employers through LinkedIn (get networking strategies and resources here!)
- Go to different Friedman lecture series/conferences to look for connections and job opportunities
- Start your job application process with a reasonable goal (e.g., applying for 2-3 jobs per week)
Winter:
~Take a break~
- Schedule some information interviews, if possible
- Explore your interests through volunteering
- Continue your job application process with a reasonable goal (e.g., applying for 2-3 jobs per week)
- Work on resume/CV and cover letters
Spring Semester
February/March:
- Attend career fairs and workshops (check our website and Tufts Handshake for event listings)
- Reach out to alumni and employers through LinkedIn (get networking strategies and resources here!)
- Continue your job application process with a reasonable goal (e.g., applying for 2-3 jobs per week)
- Apply for CPT/OPT if possible
April/May:
- Go to different Friedman lecture series/conferences to look for connections and job opportunities
- Apply for CPT/OPT if possible
Summer:
Internship!
- While you are working, you can think about
- Do you like your internship?
- Is it something you would like to do after you graduate?
- If not, how can you redirect your networking and search strategies for the next academic year?
- Reach out to alumni and employers through LinkedIn (get networking strategies and resources here!)
- Work on resume/CV and cover letters
Pursuing your academic and career journey in another country takes courage! You should feel proud of all your efforts and accomplishments thus far.
We know that job hunting can be tough, but we are here to equip you with everything you’ll need for your future career development. Best of luck with your research and applications!
