Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills

When Mark Zdunek first arrived at UConn, he carried the confidence of a high-honors high school student. But his first semester told a different story; a 2.3 first-semester GPA caught him off-guard and forced an early reckoning: college would require a new work approach.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of employment authorization available to F-1 international students that allows them to participate in internships, practicums, cooperative education experiences, or other employment directly related to their major field of study. To qualify, the employment must either be required by the degree program or earn academic credit as part of the student’s curriculum.

Fostering Connections Through Belonging Blueprint: Linda Graves’ Student Success Story 

As students, faculty, and community members moved between project displays at the 2026 UConn Hartford micro-internship showcase, Linda Graves ‘27 (SSW) presented her project, titled Belonging Blueptrint, culminating weeks of work with faculty and community …

Preparing for graduate school can be confusing as an undergraduate student when there are so many options and factors to consider. Four UConn alumni shared key points of advice for the process and factors of consideration when it comes to graduate school.

In the early days of the pandemic, many UConn engineering graduate students logged into virtual classes feeling uncertain, isolated, and unsure of where to find career support. For Dr. Faye, this moment became a catalyst. Now an Assistant Professor in Residence and Director of Engineering Education Initiatives, she is transforming how graduate students engage with career readiness.

UConn’s Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills hosted a panel featuring two international scholars who shared their strategies, challenges, and insights on navigating the U.S. job and internship search. The discussion highlighted early application timelines, the power of networking, and key resources, including CPT guidance and Career Center support, that help international students succeed.

As an international student, it is essential to understand the expectations hiring managers have for U.S. résumés, as each country has its own individual recommendations. Developing an effective document that not only highlights your education and experiences but also meets the guidelines of what American …

Forage is a free online platform designed to help students explore career paths, participate in realistic job simulations, and gain firsthand experience with leading employers. For students coming from different educational or cultural backgrounds, it can be difficult to know what to expect from the U.S. job market. That’s where Forage shines, providing insight into U.S. workplace culture, day-to-day responsibilities, and industry expectations—all without needing a visa or work authorization. By simulating real-world tasks from top companies, Forage empowers students to build practical skills and make informed career choices, no matter where they’re starting from. 

The Interstride platform provides a range of resources and information for international students in the United States and students looking to work abroad.

Hear from international student alums who shared their successes and challenges faced while searching for jobs in the U.S.!