Justin Richardson: Career Development for International Students. Slides from the University of Liverpool Learning and Teaching Conference 2009.
This session will look at what the careers and employability service has achieved in the past year in meeting the needs of growing numbers of international students, what we have learned and our plans for the future. The session will look at the ways in which the service can support international students and the issues faced by them. The session will also look at ways in which other departments can work together effectively with careers to help international student during and after their study. The session will also reflect on the recent successful PMI funded Mentoring Project for International Students which was undertaken in the last year.
2. Aims of Today Look at issues affecting international students To look at activities we currently offer to international student To look at plans for further support for international students from the Careers service Exploring effective ways to support our international students
3. Demands of International Students Regular and enthusiastic users of the Careers Service Keen to gain part-time jobs and work experience during University. Often interested in getting one or two year’s experience before returning to home country.
5. OVERALL DESTINATIONS OF UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL INTERNATIONAL QUALIFIERS Fig 1.1 – Comparison of destinations of all University of Liverpool international qualifiers to UK & EU qualifiers 2006-2008
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7. Barriers facing International Students Often restricted by limitations of visas (Post Study Work Visa – 2years). Lack of understanding of UK job recruitment processes. Competition for UK positions. Language skills and lack of established networks and contacts.
8. Unique selling points of International Students Multi-lingual Global perspective Insight into home country or regional markets Previous work experience in home country Able to adapt to new cultures and communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds
16. PMI Mentoring Scheme Project involved University of Liverpool, Liverpool Hope and Edge Hill. Led by Monira Ahmed. Funded by PMI2 in partnership with NASES Almost 60 students involved who were matched with a mentor. Mentors from variety of backgrounds including local businesses and staff from the Universities. Aimed at helping students develop career related skills and to help them find part-time work. Feedback was very positive from mentees and mentors.
17. Work Experience and Jobs We can’t guarantee a placement or job BUT We can help students identify relevant opportunities We can help students sell themselves effectively to employers We can help students apply for opportunities and help with interviews We also have an online vacancy service for work experience and job opportunities The management school has a postgraduate work experience coordinator who can help students including MBAs
18. Plans for Future Extended seminar programme for International Students Visit to China – investigate opportunities available and build links with XJTLU careers service Networking and Online Mentoring Programme ‘Talking Shop’ to build conversational skills
19. Plans nationally from AGCAS Funding from PMI2 supporting careers and employment UK wide virtual international recruitment fair Database of employers who encourage applications from international students Work with employers to help them recruit international students Further resources including i-graduate country career guides for students returning home or intending to work abroad.
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22. How can we support international students Manage expectations and encourage realistic approach around opportunities to stay in UK. Being aware of cultural differences and pressure faced. Importance of networking Early use of Careers from arrival Seeking help and advice Encourage them to sell themselves effectively Encourage early planning if returning home.
23. Other resources www.prospects.ac.uk/links/countries includes profiles on working in different countries www.ukcisa.org.uk – information on visas available and regulations regarding working www.liv.ac.uk/ist - International Support Team
24. Careers Resource Centre OPEN 10am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday and Tuesday until 6.30pm Website www.liv.ac.uk/careers Students can also email at careers@liv.ac.uk 150 Mount Pleasant, First Floor
26. Questions for Discussion How do you feel areas of teaching can contribute to developing the employability of international students ? What do you see as the main issues affecting international students ? How can we work together better to support international students ?
