Employment prospects in the USA
United States has always been considered as the “land of opportunities”. Being one of the leading nations with a strong economic structure, the nation offers an array of job opportunities to international students in all fields of work.
There is also a plethora of internship programs available that can be taken up by the international students. That not only helps them understand the intricacies of the preferred industry but also lets them earn an income while working part-time.
Owing to skills shortage across various sectors in the American market, international students with skills are in demand and those who are willing to settle in America have the option to apply under a Skilled Worker Visa and permanently work and reside in the country. Graduates are in high demand in the USA, especially in the field of healthcare, film production, real estate, retail sector, agriculture, engineering and computers & information technology.
In the USA there are options to work part-time on campus during your first year of study. You can also explore opportunities for sponsorship following your studies. International students in the USA can work in a job on campus up to 20 hours a week. Many students find that their time is better spent taking internships or practical training, which allows them to work for university credit in a job in a related field. Nearly every university, even those not located in big cities, has employees dedicated to helping students secure internships. All USA universities also offer extra-curricular activities that provide real-world job experience.
Another option that appeals to many students is to broaden their study experience through semester or summer-long study abroad and exchange programs, offered by most universities as well as outside study abroad providers. Following graduation, students on an F-1 visa can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work in their chosen field for 12-24 months after completing their studies.
Some companies may even sponsor students for a H1-B Temporary Worker Visa, allowing them to continue living in the USA as long as they work for that company. Most USA institutions have a career services department staffed with professionals focused on helping students with their résumé, teaching job interview skills, and helping them find job opportunities.