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How do I tie my experience to my career?

Global programs are widely recognized among senior management as having the potential to cultivate valued skills and desirable personal qualities in new recruits. In one survey of CEOs, 60% of all respondents reported that the hiring and promotion strategy of their companies acknowledge the importance of a global experience.  

To get the most out of your experience, create a clear connection between your career goals and your study away experience. A global experience can set you apart from other job candidates. Tie your experiences to specific skillsets that relate to your intended job or career before, during, and after your program. 

• Before: Think ahead about what types of skills and experiences you would like have gained after your program is finished.

• During: Reflect during your experience about moments that you can use in interviews and job applications in the future, engage with locals to build intercultural skills, get involved – seek out opportunities. 

• After: Market yourself! Create a resume and online presence that best demonstrates your strengths and skills. Visit the Career Network to update your resume or participate in a event or workshop 

Talk to the Career Network to learn more about the key skills or attributes that are needed to succeed in your intended career, and attend our career workshop to learn about applying an international experience to your resume. 

What skills will I gain?

Here are just a few skills sought by employers that you can cultivate during a global experience. Make a note next to each of these of an example of using or developing this skill while you are away, so that you can talk about specific examples in a future interview.  

• Coping skills (the ability to deal with stressful situations) 

• Broad and strategic thinking 

• Communication skills (including active listening and overcoming language barriers) 

• Global mindedness, appreciation of diversity, cultural awareness, and sensitivity to customs and cultural differences 

• Flexibility and adaptability

• Motivation and initiative 

• Organization and time management skills 

• Ability to identify, set, and achieve goals 

• Problem-solving and crisis-management 

• Patience and perseverance 

• Independence, self-reliance, and responsibility 

• Leadership skills