Job Search Support Center

The Office of Career & Alumni Services at IAU is here to support you in exploring career paths and becoming a competitive job candidate. We provide practical guidance through resume and cover letter reviews, job and internship search strategies, and interview preparation.

Explore the resources below for tips on resumes, cover letters, job searching, and interviewing. As a student, you will also receive invitations to career and professional development workshops and webinars. Be sure to check your email regularly and RSVP to attend.

Visit our Job Openings page to explore CPT and OPT opportunities with companies actively seeking to hire IAU students, as well as on-campus student worker positions.

If you need help finding an internship or job, want feedback on your resume, or have any questions, please contact Career Services at [email protected].

F-1 Visa / Working in the USA

F-1 international students may be eligible for employment authorization in the United States through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). Work authorization must be approved before beginning any employment, and all work is subject to specific regulations and restrictions.

Please note that authorization is required even for unpaid internships. We strongly encourage you to review the resources below for detailed guidance.

  1. IAU’s Career Services Page F-1 Employment: CPT & OPT
  2. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
  3. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
  4. Obtaining a Social Security Number (SSN)
  5. Tax Filing Services

Career Assessment Tools

Using these tools can help you identify positions and work environments that best match your skills and interests. These sites offer assessments and resources designed to make your career search more focused and effective. All of the listed sites are free to use and do not require you to sign up.

Resume Writing

Learn how to create a U.S.-style professional resume by following IAU Career Services’ resume building tips and guidelines. You can also use our Resume Template to get started.

If you would like personalized feedback, email your resume to [email protected] for review. Please ensure your resume follows our guidelines before submitting.

Be sure to look out for our next Resume and Cover Letter Workshops.

Cover Letter Writing

View our resource on How to Write a Cover Letter, including a template provided by the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI).

Keep an eye on your email for upcoming Resume and Cover Letter Workshops. You can also receive additional support from the IAU Writing Center for help with drafting and refining your cover letter. For more information, please contact the Writing Center directly at [email protected].

Job Search

Not sure where to start your job search? Review our Job Search Tips to learn effective strategies for navigating the U.S. job market, including guidance specifically for F-1 visa students.

Be sure to look out for the next Job Search Workshops.

Interview Advice

Review our Interviewing Tips to learn what to expect during the hiring process, how to prepare for interviews, and how to follow up afterward. You’ll also find guidance on avoiding job scams and tips for negotiating your salary.

Be sure to look out for the next MockUp Group Sessions.

Professional Development Workshops

IAU offers ongoing professional development opportunities to support the growth of students, faculty, and staff. Career Services workshops and webinars cover topics such as:

  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
  • Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • Job Search Strategies

Avoiding Job Scams

Learn to recognize potential employment scams by paying attention to the following warning signs:

  • Employers should never ask you to pay an application fee to apply for a job.
  • You should not be required to invest money in products, training, or memberships to start a job.
  • Group interviews may sometimes be associated with multi-level marketing (MLM aka pyramid schemes). Be sure to research the employer carefully.
  • You should never be asked to receive and reship packages as part of a job.

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