Lana Oconnell
While there is a high demand for international students in the job market, there seems to be a disconnect between what companies know is valuable and how they view international students as a way to fill those talent needs. International students are required to obtain work visas and work authorizations to be eligible for employment in a particular country. NGOs are likely to hire individuals with prior NGO experience or those with recommendations from their connections. Fellowships can also help students break into the postgraduate NGO world by funding their field work.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nature of hiring | NGOs do not hire staff through extensive, regular recruitment campaigns. They value proactivity and lateral thinking in their candidates. |
| Hiring practices | NGOs offer entry-level and experienced-hire jobs at various points in the year. |
| Job requirements | NGOs require candidates to have experience in the field and knowledge of the issues they will work on. |
| Hiring preferences | NGOs prefer candidates with prior NGO experience and those who come recommended by someone the employer knows personally or professionally. |
| Fellowship opportunities | Fellowships can help fund postgraduate "field" work and provide experience valued by NGOs. Examples include Fulbright, Rotary, and Luce Fellowships. |
| Internship opportunities | Internships with international NGOs offer hands-on work experience, skills development, and networking opportunities. Examples include UNICEF internships. |
| Visa requirements | Employers must understand visa requirements before hiring international students. For example, the H-1B visa is the most common work visa in the US and requires employer sponsorship. |
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What You'll Learn
Fellowships and internships
An international NGO internship can be a great way to prove your dedication and strength of character to future employers. It can also be a competitive field, so the experience can be demanding. Many internships are available in the humanitarian sector, offering experiential learning opportunities and a chance to gain direct practical work experience.
UNICEF
The UNICEF Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates from diverse academic backgrounds the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with UNICEF through global internship opportunities. Internships can be full-time or part-time, lasting between six and twenty-six weeks. UNICEF provides a monthly stipend to interns and may also provide a one-time lump sum to help with travel and visa costs.
U.S. Department of State
The U.S. Department of State offers a range of internships and fellowships for students and graduates. These include:
- The U.S. Foreign Service Internship Program
- Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program
- Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program
- William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship
- The Colin Powell Leadership Program - providing paid internships to students enrolled at accredited institutions and paid fellowships to recent graduates
- The Foreign Affairs IT (FAIT) Fellowship - designed to attract students with technology skills to prepare for a career in diplomacy
- The MBA Special Advisor Fellowship - for those with a Master's in Business Administration to strengthen the Department's strategic management and operations capabilities
- The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program - a paid internship with the opportunity to work in U.S. embassies and consulates throughout the world, as well as in Washington, D.C. and other offices around the U.S. This is aimed at undergraduate rising sophomore and junior students with a 3.2 GPA or higher.
The Intern Group
The Intern Group offers non-profit internships in a wide range of destinations, including London, Dublin, New York, Madrid, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Tokyo, Melbourne, and Colombia. They work with leading NGOs and smaller grassroots organizations across all sectors, including human rights, women’s rights, social work, and animal welfare. Internships can be completed in person or online, with the latter offering flexible schedules and twelve-month access to exclusive, real-time keynote career talks from global business leaders.
Changing the Present
Changing the Present offers unpaid internships for graduates on OPT (Optional Practical Training) in areas including Computer Science, Business or Data Analytics, Engineering Management, Technology, STEM, Marketing, Human Resources, Organizational Psychology, Finance, and Digital Marketing.
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Networking
It is often said that "it's not what you know, but who you know", and this is true of NGOs, too. A strong network will help an NGO connect with other organizations, funding agencies, philanthropists, consultants, and donors. For international students, networking can help you develop professionally, and it is often how you will hear about job opportunities and gain access to the 'hidden job market'.
How to Network as an International Student:
- Language Skills: Americans will be impressed by your bilingual abilities, but be mindful of speaking slowly and clearly so that you are easily understood. Ask friends to give you feedback on this.
- Build References: Start with your professors and other faculty members on campus. You can impress them with your work ethic and commitment to your field, even if your grades are not perfect.
- Prepare an Elevator Pitch: Develop a short, practiced pitch about yourself and your skills. This will help you when you meet people who may be able to help you in your job search.
- Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: It can be scary to put yourself out there, but it is necessary. Go to events, and seek out access passes to annual events for nonprofits.
- Make the Most of Events: Nonprofit events are a great way to meet people and build connections. Be sure to attend and make the most of these opportunities.
- Act Professional: You won't always like everyone, but remember that having partners is part of the business. Keep personal interests aside and make the most of partnerships to further the NGO's goals.
Internships
One great way to build your network is through internships. These can be a fantastic way to gain experience and make connections. Many internships are unpaid, but they can lead to further opportunities and enhance your resume.
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Work visas
International students seeking employment in the United States must navigate a complex immigration system, which includes various types of work visas. The specific visa requirements and options available depend on several factors, including the student's country of origin, their field of study, and the nature of the employment they seek. Working illegally can have serious consequences, so it is essential for international students to understand the regulations and visa requirements that apply to their specific situation.
One option for international students seeking work in the US is to obtain a student visa, typically an F1 visa. This visa allows international students to work on campus or at an "educationally affiliated off-campus location." The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) defines "educationally affiliated" as meeting at least one of two criteria: being associated with the school's established curriculum or related to contractually funded research projects at the post-graduate level. To ensure compliance, international students can consult their Designated School Official (DSO), who assists international students in understanding and meeting employment requirements.
Another option for international students seeking work authorization in the US is to apply for temporary employment authorization through Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Both OPT and CPT allow students to gain work experience during and after their studies, and they can serve as a pathway to obtaining a permanent or temporary work visa. The duration of OPT and CPT depends on the student's program.
Temporary work visas in the US include the H, L, O, and E visas, which allow individuals to work in the country for a specified period. Among these, the H-1B visa is the most common and requires employer sponsorship. Employers seeking to hire international students should understand the specifics of the H-1B visa process before initiating the hiring process for foreign nationals.
In addition to traditional employment, international students can explore unpaid internship opportunities with nonprofits. These internships can enhance their resumes and provide valuable experience in their field of study. Such internships can also help international students build connections and gain a better understanding of the US job market, potentially increasing their chances of obtaining employment and long-term visa options.
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Skills and experience
International students bring a diverse set of skills and experiences that can greatly benefit NGOs. Firstly, language proficiency is a valuable asset. Many international students are multilingual, which can be advantageous for NGOs operating in diverse cultural contexts and serving multilingual communities. This aligns with the growing demand for "Global and Intercultural Fluency" in the workplace, as highlighted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers.
Secondly, international students often possess cross-cultural competencies and a global mindset. They have the potential to offer unique perspectives and innovative ideas shaped by their diverse backgrounds and experiences. This can foster creativity and enhance problem-solving capabilities within NGOs.
Additionally, international students may have academic expertise and specialized skills relevant to the NGO sector. For example, students with backgrounds in international relations, development studies, social work, or environmental sciences can contribute directly to the core missions of many NGOs. Proficiency in research, data analysis, project management, and other transferable skills gained through academic pursuits can also be valuable.
Some international students may have prior experience working or volunteering with NGOs or similar organizations in their home countries. This experience can be highly valuable, as NGOs often seek candidates with a demonstrated passion for their mission and a proven track record of commitment. International students who have already worked or volunteered in the social impact sector are well-positioned to showcase their dedication and familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities within this field.
Furthermore, international students can leverage their adaptability and resilience. By studying abroad, they have demonstrated their ability to navigate new environments, cultures, and systems. This adaptability can be advantageous when working in dynamic and often unpredictable contexts that NGOs operate in.
Lastly, international students can contribute unique networks and connections. Their personal and professional relationships in their home countries or international communities can open doors to new partnerships, collaborations, and funding opportunities for NGOs.
Overall, international students bring a diverse range of skills, experiences, and perspectives that can greatly enhance the work of NGOs. By embracing the talents and backgrounds of international students, NGOs can not only access a larger talent pool but also benefit from the innovative thinking and cultural competencies that these individuals offer.
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Job applications
International students seeking job opportunities with NGOs should be aware that these organizations often hire individuals with prior NGO experience or those who come recommended by personal or professional connections. Therefore, networking is crucial to breaking into the sector. Attend events, join relevant student societies, and leverage LinkedIn to connect with existing staff at NGOs of interest. Consider internships with local NGOs to gain experience and build a network, as these are highly regarded by international NGOs.
When applying for jobs, it is essential to demonstrate how your motivation, skills, and experience align with the organization's mission and contribute to their work. Research the organization, learn about their entry-level roles, and identify the type of candidates they typically seek. Keep an eye on job sites for vacancies, and don't rely solely on advertised openings.
Some international students may benefit from fellowships, which can fund postgraduate public interest work or overseas experiences. These opportunities can provide valuable field experience and help secure permanent positions. Additionally, students can gain experience through research positions with professors or internships with nonprofits, which can enhance resumes and make them more competitive candidates.
When applying for internships, carefully review the requirements and customize your profile or application to highlight your suitability for the role. For example, UNICEF offers internships to students and recent graduates, providing practical work experience and covering expenses, including a monthly stipend and potential support for travel and visa costs.
Lastly, be proactive and think laterally when applying to international NGOs, as they may not follow extensive, regular recruitment campaigns. Entry-level and experienced-hire jobs can become available at various points throughout the year, so stay informed by following their social media channels, blogs, and news updates.
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Frequently asked questions
Networking is a great way to learn about a particular field and develop contacts to help you break into that field. Many NGO jobs are not widely advertised, so talking to people in organizations of interest is a worthwhile investment of time. Fellowships can also help fund a year or more of "field" work with a local NGO.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers cite “Global and Intercultural Fluency” as one of the most in-demand career readiness skills. Organizations that hire international students have a competitive advantage.
HLS students have used the Fulbright, Rotary, and Luce Fellowships to fund their overseas experiences.
Unpaid internships can help stop the OPT unemployment clock while you job hunt and enhance your resume.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a legal means by which F-1 students can obtain employment in areas related to their academic field of study. Students are eligible for 12 months of OPT for each degree level. STEM students can receive extensions of 24 months.
