Just Graduated & Navigating the Job Market

Just Graduated & Navigating the Job Market

Hi, Fairygodboss community! I recently graduated with a Master’s degree and am stepping into the exciting yet challenging world of job hunting. As an international student, the hurdles feel even higher in today’s competitive market.

While I’m eager to kickstart my career, I’ve realized how tough it can be to secure that first opportunity. If you’ve been in similar shoes or have any advice on overcoming these obstacles, I’d love to hear your insights!

Let’s connect, share experiences, and support each other in navigating this journey. Every bit of advice counts, and I’m all ears.

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6 Comments

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  1. Paulla Fetzek, MSEd

    Congratulations on your Masters! I received my Master's degree this past October.

    You mention being an international student. Where are you looking to work? Here in the US, despite the fact reports state a healthy job market - finding employment for many has been difficult. I'm fortunate to hold a full-time job (been here over 21 years!), but have been looking for part-time work (in the field of my Masters) since October. I've put out 70 applications to date and have 38 rejections that I've received. I can only assume the ones I've not heard from have rejected me as well.

    If you don't have prior job experience, you're going to want to highlight your academic achievements. Is there anything you did at school in your field? Many Master's programs require students to write detailed research papers. As these are typically relevant to your field, make sure to include one or two (doesn't matter that they're not published!) on your resume. Include any studies or research work you've done as well.

    You may find you'll have to enter into your field in a lower position than you'd like. Or you may find a job that's not directly related, but contains elements from your studies that will allow you to hone your skills.

    Whatever route you choose, I wish you all the best!

  2. Bhuvaneswari Kunapareddy

    Thank you for the thoughtful advice and sharing your experience! Congratulations on your Master’s as well. I’ll keep your tips in mind as I continue my job search. Wishing you all the best in your journey too!

  3. Anonymous

    Contact your university’s career center for assistance. Unless you have a STEM degree, many U.S. companies are not sponsoring visas but instead are hiring U.S. citizens. My suggestion is to apply to companies with an international presence and search for those who will sponsor an H-1. Also, look at 3rd party staffing firms in your home country. Look too at huge companies such as UPS that may have opportunities worldwide. I’m in higher ed and unless you have specialized skills or a masters in a certain field that could put you ahead of the rest. Good luck to you!

  4. Bhuvaneswari Kunapareddy

    Thank you for your advice and suggestions! I’ll definitely explore these options and focus on companies with international presence and sponsorship opportunities.

  5. John Herndon

    What experience do you have? Do you have a work Visa for the US? What is your degree in and where in the US are you located?

  6. Bhuvaneswari Kunapareddy

    Hi,

    I recently completed my Master’s in Business Analytics at the University of California, Riverside. I have hands-on experience in finance and analytics through internships. I am currently on an F-1 visa and am based in Boston, though I am open to exploring opportunities across the U.S.

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