Students going abroad more often for work experience
Elayna McCall has confidence her resume is stronger after she worked abroad.
McCall, a Higgins Lake senior, traveled to Mexico for an internship as part of her Spanish major.
“My resume not only says that I studied abroad but that I have experience, and that’s the first thing that employers have looked at during interviews,” she said. “Most jobs are competitive right now and you get twice as much experience in a new culture.”
With job outlooks fluctuating, some students are considering a more drastic approach to make their name stand out to future employers, such as working overseas.
Many students are looking abroad for job opportunities both during and after school, said Julia Sherlock, director of career services.
“We have seen the lowest hiring numbers ever in the past year, but college students are full of energy and good ideas, so why not go overseas?” Sherlock said.
But Sherlock said students should be cautious about handing money to specific organizations, especially if the price exceeds $8,000.
“I don’t think it’s necessary to pay that much and a lot of unsavory organizations take the money and run,” Sherlock said.
She said any students who feel frustrated or in need of guidance should talk to an advisor at career services for help finding internships and employment.
Novi senior Brian Putvin, a peer adviser for study abroad, said he encourages students to broaden their minds and look overseas for opportunities.
“We offer internships in other countries; most people aren’t aware that study abroad isn’t just sitting in classrooms,” Putvin said. “This appeals to employers; it shows you’re independent and motivated, it gives you that advantage.”
