Student Services Career Development Center Macalester College
Career Development Center

If you would like personalized assistance, please contact the CDC for an individual appointment, or stop by during drop-in hours Monday through Friday between 2 P.M. and 4 P.M.

International Students Job Search: Getting Started, Planning and Goal Setting

Thinking about the potential stumbling blocks prior to your return home can ease the transition between different cultures.The more carefully you anticipate and prepare for the personal pressure and reverse culture shock, the more your energy can be focused on a successful job search. Before your begin your job search, it is important to think through how you have changed, what your new goals are, and the various obstacles you anticipate facing. Spend time reflecting carefully on the following:

Self-Assessment

  1. How have you changed since coming to the U.S.?
  2. How do you interact with others differently?
  3. What different expectations do you have of yourself and others?
  4. How will family and friends at home respond to new character developments?

Reentry/Culture Shock

  1. What values & traditions in your home country have you missed?
  2. Which will be most frustrating to deal with?
  3. Will your fellow nationals accept the changes you've undergone?
  4. What cultural and social expectations will be placed upon you that may cause discomfort?

Career Goals and Expectations

  1. What knowledge and skills have you acquired that you would like to utilize in your home country? Is there a need for such skills?
  2. How strong is the demand for individuals with your background?
  3. What final courses/experiences might you pursue to make yourself more marketable?
  4. Will you be seeking employment in the public, private, or non-profit sector?
  5. What salary range will you be most satisfied with?
  6. What is your time frame? Do you expect to work immediately upon return?
  7. What steps can you take now to assure that you meet your goals?


Macalester College · 1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105  USA · 651-696-6000
Comments and questions to cdc@macalester.edu