Welcome Back! Shape Your Global Experience into Career Success

Studying abroad is an incredible journey that broadens horizons, builds adaptability, and fosters cultural competence. Now that you’re back, it’s time to leverage your international experience to launch or advance your career. This page will help you find resources to enhance your resume, ace interviews, and connect with global networks.

1. Resume Building and Translation of Skills
   Highlight these skills in your resume:

• Cross-Cultural Communication: Showcase your ability to navigate diverse environments.
• Problem-Solving and Adaptability: Demonstrate resilience and creativity in overcoming challenges.
• Language Proficiency: Highlight any new languages or enhanced fluency gained during your time abroad.

Check out this guide to incorporating study abroad on a resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn

Review this recent career focused session we held with our ENGR 460 class. 

2. Prepare for interviews

Incorporating your study abroad experience is an excellent opportunity to differentiate yourself from a crowded pool of applicants. 

• Practice answering questions like: “How has studying abroad prepared you for this role?”
• Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to tell compelling stories.

Review this guide to learn more about how to talk about study abroad in an interview

3. Engineering Career Resource Center (ECRC)

Our Engineering Career Resource Center can help you dive deeper into into how to incorporate your global experience into career success. 

Take a look at their “how we can help” page for links to individual career advising appointments, career workshops, and more.

How to Go Abroad Again: A Guide for IPE Returnees

Welcome back! Your study abroad experience was undoubtedly life-changing, but if you’re reading this, you’re probably already planning on how to go abroad again. Whether it’s for work, further study, volunteering, or just another adventure, there are countless opportunities to continue exploring the world. Here’s how you can make it happen:

1. Further your education abroad

If you loved studying in a new culture, why not find a way to do it again?

• IPE Programs: Many of our students love our programs so much, they find a way to do another one! Check out our find a program page to plan your 2nd IPE experience.

• Graduate Programs Abroad: Many universities worldwide offer graduate degrees to international students, often with scholarships or assistantship opportunities. Look for programs aligned with your interests and career goals.
• Language Immersion Programs: Deepen your connection to a place by enrolling in language schools or courses abroad.

Tip: Check funding opportunities like Fulbright, DAAD, or Erasmus Mundus scholarships for graduate studies abroad.

2. Work Abroad

Transition from a student traveler to an international professional!

• Work Visa Programs: Many countries offer working holiday visas for young adults. Research eligibility and application processes.
• Global Companies: Look for positions with multinational corporations that have offices abroad or entry-level programs designed for recent graduates.
• Teach English Abroad: Programs like JET (Japan), CIEE, or teaching through local schools can be a great way to fund your international adventure while giving back.
• Freelancing or Remote Work: Leverage your skills to work online while living abroad. Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr can connect you to remote opportunities.

3. Volunteering and Internships

Combine travel with meaningful work and hands-on experience.

• NGOs and Nonprofits: Organizations like the Peace Corps, WWOOF, or Habitat for Humanity offer opportunities to volunteer globally.
• Short-Term Internships: Many organizations, such as AIESEC or IAESTE, specialize in connecting young professionals with internships abroad.
• Cultural Exchange Programs: Programs like Au Pairing or working as a camp counselor let you live in another country while gaining valuable experience.

4. Networking and Planning

Your previous study abroad experience is a valuable asset but it can be further strengthened by tapping into the power of your networks.

• Leverage Alumni Networks: Reach out to fellow study abroad alumni or international contacts for advice, job leads, or recommendations.
• Stay Connected: Keep in touch with friends, host families, or mentors from your time abroad. They might have insights into new opportunities.

Plan Logistically: Research visas, housing, and travel insurance early. Join forums or expat groups for support.

Check out our IPE Events calendar, events that have ‘Ambassador Opportunity’ in the description are available for participation!