Finding a dream job in the US: What US Universities offer

Selecting a career represents just the first step on the path to creating a rewarding career trajectory. As students begin to actively seek out their dream career, how can they ensure they are well-equipped for success? 

American colleges assist overseas students in developing the necessary competencies which can help them thrive in the international job market. 

The Pearson Skills Outlook study, which collates important "core skills" appreciated by employers, has identified that firms are looking for candidates with expertise in communication, leadership abilities, meticulousness, and the capability to work closely with others. Moreover, employers appreciate candidates who have a good understanding of consumer needs and aspirations.

Ariadne Cheng, Associate Director for international student career engagement at the University of Southern California (USC), notes that besides communication and teamwork skills, the National Association of Colleges and Employers’ yearly report highlights critical thinking, professionalism, and an understanding of equity and inclusion as especially important skills for individuals looking to make a career .

Unlock Your Full Potential

Picking the appropriate classes is an essential initial step towards developing employability skills. For instance, taking writing courses can enhance one's ability to communicate, while practical lab sessions can foster collaboration and meticulousness. 

Jerusha D’Souza, a lawyer from Mumbai specializing in entertainment and technology law, who completed her master's degree at the University of Southern California, explains that developing effective listening skills broadened her comprehension of her field. "Master's programs often draw in a varied group of international students from different backgrounds and languages," she notes. "By focusing on the perspectives and insights of students from various regions during class discussions, I began to understand the subtleties in their arguments and to appreciate diverse viewpoints that may not have occurred to me otherwise." D’Souza also credits her experiences living in various countries with different legal frameworks for providing her with crucial knowledge on how to approach situations from multiple perspectives, thereby enhancing her analytical skills. 

Jerusha D’Souza, a lawyer from Mumbai who works in the entertainment and technology sector, also highlights that learning can occur beyond the confines of university campuses. American universities provide a vast range of clubs, organizations, internships, and cultural exchange programs that can assist students in enhancing their communication skills, teamwork, and leadership abilities.

“Don’t get so focused on academics that you forget to experience the U.S. college life,” she advises." Indeed, academic achievements matter, but a lot of the abilities that potential employers look for in fresh graduates are developed through pursuing your passions, seizing leadership roles, and venturing beyond your familiar boundaries," Cheng points out.

Aryaman Meswani, hailing from Mumbai, is pursuing a degree in finance, management, and systems engineering at the University of Pennsylvania. He mentions that his academic journey has not only enhanced his abilities in communication and teamwork but also emphasized the importance of refining these skills due to the university's "pre-professional atmosphere." This includes the involvement in clubs, the recruitment procedures, the campus's focus on recruitment, the visibility of companies, and the manner in which his peers engage with each other.

Forge Close Relationships

Building relationships with fellow students from diverse backgrounds at American colleges can also aid in the development of essential abilities and the creation of important professional circles, Cheng suggests. “Multiculturalism constitutes a significant aspect of the American college experience,” she says. “Opening yourself up to learning about different cultures and backgrounds can broaden your perspective and enable you to communicate more effectively with different people, find new angles to solve problems, and become a better colleague and friend to your peers.

Cheng's top tip for international students looking to enhance their job readiness skills? Head to your college's career center as soon as possible and regularly, she advises. Think about applying for a job at your college's career center, where you can gain direct experience with the various career resources and chances your school offers to students.

NOTE: Published with inputs and permission from SPAN Magazine