Careers in International Education
By Kimberly Larsson
When thinking about a career, many study abroad returnees often consider a position in International Education, a career that might include working with U.S. students and scholars going abroad, advising international students and scholars coming to the United States, teaching English as a Second Language, developing campus and community programming, or taking a job overseas. Careers in International Education are not limited to a particular location, and while many positions are on campuses across the U.S. and abroad, there are many organizations, businesses, and government offices that hire International Education professionals.
So how do you pursue a job in the field of International Education, and what are employers in this field looking for?
GET AN INTERNSHIP
Obtaining an internship in an international office at a college or university, or at an educational organization or government department, is key to understanding the day-to-day office environment and the primary responsibilities for the position you are interested in. Try to find an internship or an opportunity to volunteer in such an office, network among those with whom you work, ask questions, and get involved in as many aspects of the office as possible. Interning or volunteering in an office can often lead to permanent employment opportunities.
JOIN NAFSA
Without a doubt, the largest professional organization in the field of International Education is NAFSA: The Association for International Educators. NAFSA provides a wealth of information and resources for professionals in the field, as well as a Career Center complete with a Job Registry on the NAFSA website (www.nafsa.org) for those looking for a position in International Education. Joining an international education professional organization like NAFSA also gives you valuable opportunities to network with current professionals in the field and learn about recent trends, relevant issues, and upcoming events.
KNOW WHAT EMPLOYERS WANT
So what are employers in international education looking for anyway? A standard list may include:
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Master’s degree in a related field
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Cultural sensitivity and awareness
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Previous experience living/working/studying abroad
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Strong organizational skills and administrative skills
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Excellent oral/written communication skills
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Second language capability
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Ability to work with persons from culturally diverse backgrounds
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Working knowledge of federal immigration regulations
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Ability to travel
CHECK WEBSITES
Higher Education Jobs and The Chronicle of Higher Education are both reliable websites for positions in higher education that allow you to narrow your search criteria and focus on positions in International Education:
GO TO REGIONAL AND NATIONAL INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION CONFERENCES
There are a variety of regional, national, and international conferences in International Education that provide learning and networking opportunities as well as the chance to apply and interview for available positions. Attending a conference is a valuable way to meet prospective colleagues in person, exchange information, and immerse yourself in the world of International Education.
GOOD LUCK!
Kimberly Larsson is the assistant director of the Office of International Programs at North Central College in Naperville, Ill. She completed her master’s degree in international business and then worked, lived, and traveled abroad for eight years. Kimberly worked for the American Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden, and then moved to Japan to work as a teacher with the JET program. She ended her time abroad with a year-and-a-half backpacking journey to more than 29 countries.
Read Kimberly's article on how to market your international experience.