Thursday, March 23, 2023, was Career Expo Day at the University of Illinois Springfield. This event took place in The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) building, hosting more than 100 employers who were each given a booth. This event was put together by the UIS Career Development Center as an initiative to get companies to advertise themselves and the opportunities they have for students.
The students in attendance were mostly dressed in corporate attire, looking ready to be employed on the spot by the companies in attendance. The representatives of these companies were mostly friendly and ready to answer questions from students or anyone in attendance. They also had souvenirs and other gift items for students who came to their booth.
As an international student, I tried asking some of these employers about possible opportunities for students like me in their organizations. Though most agreed that there might be opportunities for everyone in their firm, they are unsure if their agencies, companies, or organizations are open to work visa sponsorship for students who belong to these categories. However, these students who have completed their studies are welcome to have their Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) with them.
A few agencies were sorry to inform me that their job opportunities are only meant for American citizens. In one of my interviews with a representative of the Government department, the agent said with a welcoming smile, “If you become an American citizen, you can apply for this job.”
At 2 p.m., when the event was over, I asked a few international students if their expectations for the event had been met. Most of them said the same thing: “There are a lot of opportunities at the expo, but even more of them are not open for internationals, or they are not sure if they can employ and sponsor work visas.”
An international student shared her thoughts on that, saying she understands that America needs to put its citizens first. It’s also understandable that some job opportunities may be restricted to American citizens due to legal requirements or government regulations.
She further said, “As an international student, it’s important to do your research and seek out companies known to be open to hiring international candidates. You can also seek advice and guidance from the career development center at the university, as they may be able to provide information about companies with a track record of hiring international students and sponsoring work visas.”
