iCareer

iCareer is a series of informative discussions and presentations to provide important resources and address the unique needs/issues faced by international students as they are preparing for their academic/career path beyond JMU

What do you plan to do when you graduate from JMU? Will you go to grad school? Do you plan to work? Will you be going home? Will you stay in the US? How does your immigration status impact your options? What resources are there to help you sort through all of this and more?... These are some of the questions that you need to be thinking about as it will trigger more questions. To help you sort through and answer these questions and situations, as well as give you tips and advice to help you be successful, we have organized a series of discussions, sessions and presentations to address your specific issues… and remember, it is never too early to plan for your future.

Wednesday, Sept. 19 - The Art of Newtorking [CGE Lounge @6pm] Approaching individuals you do not know, having to sell yourself, and then having to balancing your food and drinks while talking, are not things that come naturally. Come experience them in a friendly environment and if all fails, at least, you will have connected and met with some important professionals in their fields (also members of the Harrisonburg Rotary Club) while enjoying some refreshments.

Friday, Sept. 21 - International Student Career Day [Festival Bldg. @3-6pm] features special guests: immigration lawyers, international alumni, and career advisors will be offering different sessions designed to address the specific immigration and cultural differences that students face when searching, applying, interviewing for jobs/internships in the US. We will also mention a tool specifically designed to help international students (studying in the US) with their job search. Register to obtain more specific information about this event.

Wednesday, Oct. 10 - I'm Looking for a Job [CGE Lounge @11:45am - 12:45pm] Stop by the CGE classroom anytime during this time frame to informally talk about “looking for jobs.” Bring your questions, comments, concerns and even your lunch (if you want to). Everyone is invited to join us.

• Whether you decide to go back to your home country, go to an entirely new country, stay in the US, look for jobs anywhere in the world, understand different ways of conducting business, or familiarize yourself with the immigration policies GoinGlobal is the one resource for you.
• JMU’s Career and Academic Planning office has a great source of information and individuals to help you. Their International Student community section has been written with your very specific immigration status and situations in mind.
• Your international experience sets you apart, learn to market your international experience
• Understand the Common Cultural Barriers to overcome them
• For any and all immigration related issues and concerns go to the Center for Global Engagement- this section Student Immigration section off of the International Student Scholar Services website and this Work Options for International Students will serve as good stepping stones.
• Going to graduate school might be a nice alternative, check out this Graduate School Preparation

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Thomas Lavenir (540) 568-7314.