In Progress
3) Internship & Experience Engine (Core Student Output)
Getting internships without brand names
Look for 'Mid-Market' companies (companies with 100 to 500 employees). They have money to pay you, they have real problems for you to solve, and they are much easier to get into. Getting a 'no-name' internship in your first year makes you a superstar when you apply to the 'Big Brands' in your second year.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a special benefit for F-1 students. It allows you to work off-campus in a job related to your major.
- During the school year, you are usually limited to 20 hours a week (Part-Time). During the summer, you can work 40+ hours (Full-Time).
- Be very careful. If you use 365 days of Full-Time CPT, you lose your right to work after graduation (OPT). Most smart students stop at 11 months (about 330 days) just to stay safe. Always talk to your school's international office before signing anything.
Free Resource: CPT for International Students
Resources
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