Career Integration & Study Abroad

Your study abroad experience is a powerful catalyst for career growth. In today's interconnected world, employers actively seek candidates who can demonstrate global competency and cross-cultural understanding. By studying abroad, you're not just gaining academic knowledge, you're developing crucial professional skills that will set you apart in your future career! From enhanced communication abilities to proven adaptability, your time abroad is an investment in your professional future.

ResourcesMarketing your experienceRecruitmentfuture fellowships

Resources

Northwestern Career Advancement

Let NCA staff coach you on how to represent your study abroad experience on your resume, cover letters, personal statements, and interviews.

Schedule an appointment

Office of Fellowships

The Office of Fellowships can help you leverage your study abroad experience for prestigious fellowship opportunities. Their advisors can guide you through the application process and help you identify fellowships that align with your international experience and future goals.

Contact the Office of Fellowships

Additional Resources

• Overview of transferable skills
• Personal reflection on acquired skills
• Gaining An Employment Edge

Marketing Your Study Abroad Experience

The key to leveraging your study abroad experience is understanding how to effectively communicate the valuable skills you've gained. Employers value international experience because it demonstrates initiative, adaptability, and cultural awareness. Your time abroad has equipped you with unique perspectives and capabilities; now it's time to showcase them.

Resume Enhancement

Your resume is often your first opportunity to highlight your international experience. Include your study abroad experience strategically to showcase both academic achievements and personal growth.

• Add your study abroad experience under Education, including university name, location, and dates
• Highlight relevant coursework that aligns with your career goals
• Create a "Skills" section that includes language abilities and cross-cultural competencies
• Consider adding an "International Experience" section if you had multiple global experiences

Interview Preparation

Interviews are your chance to bring your study abroad experience to life through compelling stories that demonstrate your growth and capabilities. Focus on your motivation for studying abroad as a strategic decision for gaining skills.

Common Interview Questions:

• "Why did you choose to study abroad?"
• "What was your biggest challenge while abroad?"
• “What skills did you learn abroad? How will these skills be helpful to you in the future?”
• "How has studying abroad prepared you for this role?"

Building Your Global Network

Your time abroad opens doors to valuable networking opportunities. Whether you're interested in working internationally or bringing a global perspective to a domestic role, the connections you make while studying abroad can be instrumental to your career development.

While Abroad

Make the most of your time in-country by actively building your professional network:

• Connect with faculty and maintain these relationships for future recommendations
• Join local professional organizations or student groups
• Attend networking events and career fairs at your host institution

Alumni Connections

Northwestern's global alumni network can be an invaluable resource for career advice and opportunities:

• Use Our Northwestern database to find alumni in your host country

Recruitment Timeline

Different industries recruit at different times throughout the academic year. Understanding these cycles is crucial for planning your job search while abroad. Being strategic about timing can help you successfully participate in recruitment activities, even from overseas.

On-Campus Recruiting (OCR) While Abroad

Many industries, particularly consulting and finance, rely heavily on On-Campus Recruiting for their hiring processes. Being abroad shouldn't hold you back from these opportunities. With proper planning and communication, you can successfully participate in OCR from anywhere in the world.

NCA provides a comprehensive industry recruitment timeline that shows peak hiring activity for different sectors. Review the recruitment timeline PDF to understand when your target industry typically recruits.

Application Process

• Clearly state your study abroad status in your resume and cover letter
• Contact your Employer Relations Strategist early to discuss virtual interview logistics
• Request virtual accommodations as soon as you receive an interview invitation
• Review the recruitment calendar for your target industries and plan accordingly

Virtual Interview Success

• Plan for Central Time Zone scheduling—this may mean early morning or late-night interviews in your location
• Test your technical setup well in advance of any interviews
• Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and quiet space for interviewing
• Practice virtual interviewing to become comfortable with the format

Future Fellowships

Your study abroad experience can strengthen your candidacy for prestigious fellowships and grants. Many fellowship programs value international experience and cross-cultural understanding. Start planning early to maximize your opportunities.

Before You Leave

Early preparation is key to pursuing fellowship opportunities. Take these steps before departing:

• Explore the Office of Fellowships website and subscribe to their listserv.
• Review fellowship deadlines
• Meet with fellowship advisors
• Gather recommendation letters
• Research country-specific opportunities

During Your Program

Make the most of your time abroad to strengthen your fellowship applications:

• Document your experiences
• Develop language skills
• Build relationships with local faculty
• Engage in local research opportunities

After Return

Use your experience to enhance your applications:

• Reflect on your growth and learning
• Write compelling personal statements
• Submit your applications by the deadlines