My name is Jazelyn, and I’m a Kaplan Student Engagement Manager at the University of Connecticut (UConn).
For many international students, choosing a university is about more than academics — it’s also about preparing for the future.
Questions about internships, careers, professional experience, and navigating the USA‘s job market often become just as important as choosing a major.
At UConn, students don’t have to figure those things out alone. Career support is built into the student experience from the very beginning.
Helping UConn students launch their career
UConn has developed career centers across all their campuses to help students explore their interests, build confidence, and prepare for opportunities after graduation.
Their specific mission is “to deliver comprehensive, innovative, and inclusive programs and services for all students. [While they] cultivate connections to campus and community partners promoting opportunities for students to become contributing members of the state, national, and world communities”.
One of the biggest things I tell prospective students is: “You do not need to have everything figured out. Many students are unsure of what they want to do, and that’s completely normal.”
However, UConn wants to provide students with the resources, people, and programs to support you along the way.
An inside view of UConn career support
At UConn, career development is supported through the Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills, which helps students navigate everything from choosing a major to preparing for internships, interviews, and full-time employment.
From my perspective working with students, one of the most valuable aspects of UConn’s career support is its accessibility. Students can begin using career services early in their college experience. In fact, the students who benefit the most are often the ones who start exploring resources sooner rather than later.
The center helps students:
- discuss career interests and goals
- explore majors and careers
- improve resume, curriculum vitae, and cover letters
- prepare for interviews
- search for internships or jobs
- learn networking strategies
- attend career fairs and workshops.
Career support at UConn is designed to meet students where they are, whether they are just beginning to think about career options or actively applying for opportunities.
How UConn supports international students
UConn also provides resources specifically designed to support international students as they prepare for careers and professional experiences.
A valuable resource that international students use through the Career Center is career coaching. Through one-on-one appointments, students can speak with career professionals about their goals, questions, and next steps.
These conversations can be especially valuable for an international student because navigating a new environment often comes with additional questions. Students frequently ask about professional expectations in the USA, how networking works, or how to communicate their experiences effectively to employers.
The International Students Career Community, a community that provides specialized resources and content, helps students find information relevant to their specific experiences and questions in one place.
Another valuable tool is Interstride, a platform designed to support international students with career development and job searching. Students can use Interstride to explore webinars and past recordings, access immigration and visa resources, and learn more about working in the U.S. and abroad.
In addition, the Center for International Students and Scholars provides support related to immigration and practical training opportunities. Workshops on Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) help F-1 students better understand their options for internships and post-graduation employment experiences.
For many students, understanding these processes can initially feel overwhelming. That’s why one of the most important things we try to do is help students feel informed and supported rather than intimidated by the process.
Advice from a UConn insider
Our favorite piece of advice to give incoming international students is to start early and stay curious.
You do not need to have every answer right away. Some students arrive knowing exactly what career path they want to pursue, while others are still exploring — both experiences are completely valid.
The students who tend to grow the most are those who
- ask questions
- attend events
- build connections
- try new opportunities
- use career resources consistently.
We also encourage students to make use of international student-specific resources whenever possible. These services exist because UConn understands that international students may face unique challenges while adjusting to a new academic and professional environment.
Build your future at UConn
Choosing a university is a major decision, and for international students, finding a place that supports both academic and career success can make a meaningful difference.
Whether you already have a career goal in mind or are still exploring options, UConn offers the tools, support, and community to help you move forward.
Ready to take the next step? Apply to the University of Connecticut and start building your future today!
