Finding CPT Jobs
CPT (Curricular Practical Training) is an educational program that allows international students with an F-1 visa to gain professional experience in an area related to their field of study. It is important to take advantage of CPT as having related work experience will increase your employability and boost your resume. Here are some tips to help you find CPT jobs in the US:
1. Check Your University’s Career Center
The most important place to start your search for a CPT job is your university’s career center. Career centers are a great resource for finding jobs that are related to your field of study and some employers may even come to the career center to recruit international students for part-time or full-time employment.
2. Ask Around in Your Classes
Your classmates are a great resource when it comes to finding CPT jobs. They may know of employers who are looking for international students and they can offer insight on the best way to find a job. You can also network with people in your field of study to find out if there are any CPT opportunities available.
3. Look Online
There are many websites that can help in your search for CPT jobs. You can look on job listing websites such as Indeed and Careerbuilder or look for international student-specific websites such as CPTJobs.org. You can also look on your university’s website for job postings.
4. Apply for Internships
Internships are another option for gaining professional experience. Internships for international students are typically unpaid, but they are still a great way to gain experience and possibly lead to more permanent job opportunities.
5. Connect with International Student Organizations
International student organizations are a great resource for finding CPT jobs. These organizations may have links to employers who are looking to hire international students or they may have events where employers come and give presentations.
6. Get Creative
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative when it comes to looking for CPT jobs. Reach out to employers who may not realize that they can hire international students and don’t be afraid to negotiate.
Finding a CPT job doesn’t have to be a tedious process. By following these tips and keeping your eyes open for new opportunities, you can find a job that will give you the professional experience you need to boost your resume and your future career prospects.