Lori Friedman, director of the International Students and Scholars program at the University of St. Thomas, oversees over 500 international students on campus. Much of her job is spent not only making sure students understand the high stakes of seeking employment in the U.S., but educating employers as well.

“It’s very difficult,” Friedman said. “Many students want U.S. work experience before returning home, but employers have a learning curve when it comes to hiring international graduates.”

Mark Sorenson-Wagner, director of career development at the University of St. Thomas, teaches international students about the factors they can control in the job interview process, from making connections to feeling confident when an opportunity arises so employers will recognize their value.

“How do we make sure that you are ready to go in terms of your networking skills, your elevator pitch, you have a great resume, you’ve practiced your interview questions? You present yourself as the strong candidate that you are to break down as many barriers as possible if a company is on the fence in terms of making things work,” Sorenson-Wagner said.