Job Applications- How to Succeed

Getting ready to apply
Know what kinds of visas you can get
Learn about work permits like CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT extensions. Learn about the timelines so you don't miss out on application windows.
Find out about the company's sponsorship policies; not all companies do.
Use tools like MyVisaJobs, LinkedIn filters, or career centers at your school to find companies that have hired international graduates in the past.

Make Your Resume Unique:
Emphasize your transferable skills, technical knowledge, and experiences in other cultures.
Make sure it works with ATS by not using graphics, making job titles clear, and using keywords from the job description.

Prepare a 30-second elevator pitch that includes your background, skills, and what you can do for the company.
Get ready for networking calls and career fairs.

The Strategic Application Process
Give priority to employers who sponsor;
Start with companies in your field (tech, finance, consulting, and engineering often sponsor more).
Use college networks
Career services, alumni connections, and professors can often help you get a job with an employer who is open to hiring people from other countries.
Apply early:
Some companies that give a lot of money to students (like big tech or consulting firms) stop taking applications months before graduation.
Track Applications:
Keep track of the jobs you've applied for, the follow-ups you've sent, and the responses you've gotten from recruiters in a spreadsheet.

Networking and getting to know employers
Use LinkedIn and alumni:
Get in touch with alumni from your school who work at the companies you want to work for. Find out about their journey and the culture of company sponsorship.
Career Fairs: Go to both general fairs and fairs for international students. Don't just drop off your resume; be ready with a few good questions.
Referrals: Getting a referral from someone inside the company greatly increases your chances of getting an interview. After making networking calls, ask them politely if they would be willing to refer you.

Getting ready for the interview
Make sure you understand your work authorization:
Make a short answer: "I have an F1 visa and can start working in May. I'm open to talking about long-term sponsorship."
Emphasize Global Perspective:
As an international student, show that you can adapt, speak more than one language, and have experience working with people from other cultures.
Practice your behavioral and technical skills by using the STAR method for behavioral responses and LeetCode or HackerRank for tech roles.

After the Offer
Talk about sponsorship early on. If a company is unsure, ask about their H1-B support policies.
Use Career Services:
Many colleges and universities have immigration advisors who can help with CPT and OPT paperwork.
Have a Plan B: If sponsorship doesn't work out in the U.S., look into internships, research positions, or the company's offices around the world.

✨ Pro Tip:
Think of your job search as a project. Set weekly goals for applications, outreach, and interviews, keep track of your progress, and change your plan as needed. It's more important to be consistent than to have a lot of things.