As international students, you are not visitors on campus — you are an integral part of the vibrant, diverse community that makes UMass Lowell special. We recognize the challenges you face, especially during these uncertain times, and we at the Career & Co-op Center want you to know: We are here for you.
From navigating U.S. culture to adjusting to the U.S. job search process, the road ahead may seem daunting. But at UMass Lowell, we are committed to supporting you. At the Career & Co-op Center, you’ll find a variety of tools, guidance, and personalized support to help you thrive.
We Are Here For Your Career Development
We understand that international students often face unique challenges when it comes to entering the job market. That’s why we offer resources to help you succeed. One of the first steps in your career journey is creating a standout resume and cover letter that highlights your skills and experiences in a way that appeals to U.S. employers. At the Career & Co-op Center, we provide workshops and one-on-one resume review sessions to help you present your unique experiences and qualifications in a way that resonates with U.S. employers.
But a strong job search strategy doesn’t stop there. Networking is a vital part of building a successful career, and we can help you develop the skills and confidence to network effectively. Through one-on-one advising, events, and workshops, we’ll teach you how to build and maintain valuable professional relationships, both online and in person. You’ll learn the ins and outs of networking, such as refining your elevator pitch, making meaningful connections at career fairs and networking events, and conducting informational interviews.
Additionally, the Career & Co-op Center offers access to GoinGlobal, a fantastic resource that helps all students navigate the global job market. With GoinGlobal, you can access detailed career guides, job search tools, visa information, and employer directories tailored to specific countries—whether you’re aiming to work in the U.S. or explore opportunities elsewhere.
The Career & Co-op Center is here to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the job market. Consider scheduling an appointment to meet with an advisor about your career goals and job search strategy.
We Are Here for Your Concerns And Questions
We understand that international students often have specific concerns about work permits, visa status, finding employers who hire international talent, and more. Our goal is to connect you with the right resources and experts who can guide you through these complex topics. Additionally, through our GoinGlobal resource, you have access to a wide range of on-demand webinars covering important topics such as CPT/OPT, work visas, and more. (These can be found by going to the righthand column of GoinGlobal’s main webpage and choosing “View more” in the “Webinars” section.) These recordings are a great way to gain an understanding of important work considerations and processes, as shared by well-practiced legal experts.
The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) is a critical touch point in international students’ journeys regarding visas, work authorizations, and the like. Book an advising appointment with ISSO and attend their monthly coffee chats to get your questions answered and learn about more resources. While you wait to meet with the ISSO for more specific advice on opportunities like CPT and OPT, we can offer initial guidance and support. Remember, no question is too big or too small.
We Are Here to Help You Find Community
One of the most important parts of feeling supported is developing a sense of community. At UMass Lowell, we understand that it can be hard to build connections when you’re far from home. But you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
We are here to help you find a community, both professionally and socially. The university offers numerous clubs, student organizations, and networking events that cater to diverse interests and backgrounds through the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) and the Engage website. These spaces are great opportunities to meet people who share your passions, from academics to hobbies, and to create lifelong connections. Getting involved is also a great way to build real-world, transferable skills like leadership, communication, teamwork, and networking—qualities that employers value in every field. Many clubs engage in hands-on projects that allow members to utilize technical skills critical for their desired career paths, and these are helpful additions to student resumes. Additionally, the Career & Co-op Center offers regular networking events and career fairs, where you can meet employers, alumni, and other students who can help you grow in your professional journey. You can find these opportunities on Handshake.
In Conclusion: We’re Here to Support Your Success
At the UMass Lowell Career & Co-op Center, we seek to provide you the support and tools you need to succeed. Come meet with us for a resume review or schedule an appointment today to discuss your job search and career-related questions. We look forward to seeing you!
