A new semester brings fresh opportunities, new decisions, and often a long list of things competing for your attention. Career development may not feel like the most urgent item on that list—especially if graduation seems far away or you are still figuring out what interests you.
That is precisely why this is a good time to visit the Loeb Center.
You do not need to have a career path mapped out, an internship in mind, or even a polished résumé before meeting with us. In fact, some of the most valuable conversations begin with simple questions:
- How do I explore careers in the United States or elsewhere?
- Where should I begin looking for internships?
- How do I talk about my international experience and skills?
- How does networking work?
- What should I be doing now to prepare for the future?
The Loeb Center is not only a place to visit when you need a job or when graduation is approaching. We are here to help you explore your interests, identify your strengths, understand recruiting practices, connect with alumni, prepare application materials, and make informed decisions throughout your time at Amherst.
Why starting early matters
Career development happens over time. An early conversation can help you recognize opportunities, understand timelines, and avoid feeling rushed when an application deadline suddenly appears.
International students may also encounter unfamiliar expectations in the U.S. job-search process. U.S. résumé standards, interviews, networking, employer communication, and recruiting timelines may differ from what you have experienced elsewhere. You are not expected to navigate all of this on your own.
Visiting the Loeb early gives you time to ask questions, practice, plan, and build confidence. Visiting often allows us to support you as your interests and plans develop.
A few ways to begin
This semester, consider taking one or more of these steps:
- Schedule an appointment with a career advisor or Peer Career Advisor.
- Complete or update your Handshake profile.
- Join the Career Communities that reflect your interests.
- Attend a workshop, employer event, career fair, or alumni program.
- Bring us a résumé or cover letter, even if it is still a rough draft.
- Ask for help identifying internships, campus opportunities, or possible career paths.
- Practice introducing yourself and explaining the skills and perspectives you bring.
You do not need to complete everything at once. Choose one step and begin there.
Your experiences are an asset
As an international student, you bring experiences that can add real value to organizations: adaptability, cross-cultural communication, language abilities, resourcefulness, and perspectives shaped by navigating different communities and environments.
Part of career development is learning how to recognize those strengths and communicate them clearly. We can help you tell that story—not as something separate from your qualifications, but as an important part of what you offer.
Come as you are
Whether you are confident about your direction, considering several possibilities, or unsure where to begin, there is a place for you at the Loeb Center.
Do not wait until you believe you have the perfect question, the perfect résumé, or the perfect plan. Visit us early. Return as your questions change. Let us help you move forward one conversation and one step at a time.
We look forward to seeing you at the Loeb Center this semester.
Donnell Turner
Director of Inclusive Career Development
Loeb Center for Career Exploration and Planning
