Being an international student at Cornell can be both an exciting and challenging experience. Moving to a new country, navigating a different culture, and adapting to an academic system that may be different from what you’re used to can feel overwhelming at times. However, rest assured that you are not alone in this journey. We at the CEC prepared a list of resources tailored for international students! If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to stop by the CEC at MVR 1203 and chat with our international career assistants who are going through the same experience as you!
- Working with an F-1 VISA? Here are some helpful links about work authorization:
- What is CPT?
- What is OPT?
- What is OPT STEM Extension?
- Check the major code on your i-20 to see if the code is on this STEM list:
- If you are unsure, schedule an appointment with International Services:
- What is H1B?
- Information can be found on the “International” module on Career Development Toolkit on Canvas.
- Finding a job? Here are some international student Job Search Resources :
- Interstride: Platform tailored for international students, including job search with US visa filter, webinar series on VISA, useful blog posts on international student job logistics, and other resources
- Cornell Career Center Webpage: provides international student-friendly job openings, events/workshops, webinars, blog posts, resources etc.
- Vault.com: Platform that shows International Students’ Eligibility for business-related companies (finance, law, tech, consulting, etc.)
- Attend Cornell’s Career Fair: here’s a CEC blog on what to expect at the Career Fair.
- If you are not sure whether a position accepts international candidates, the best way is always to confirm with the recruiting team via email, information sessions, and meet them during the Career Fair! Sometimes they might also explain in FAQ.
- After you get a job: How to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN):
- Guide from Global Learning:
- Guide from Social Security Administration
- Start an application for a new card here:
- Once you have completed the application and have all materials ready, visit the U.S. Social Security Administration office (127 W. State St, Ithaca NY Hours: M-F 9:00-16:00 Phone:1-866-706-8289)
- How to file taxes as an international student?
- Want to talk with advisors? Schedule an appointment here:
- Office of Global Learning International Service: 10-min Appointment
- Human Ecology Career Development Advisors (for Human Ecology students only): “Diversity Student Support” for international students who want to take a leave of absence or “Career Exploration & Advising” for general career advising
- Cornell Central Career Services (for all Cornell students): “International Student Support”
- College of Human Ecology Career Exploration Center: we have international career assistance who are eager to help!
- Are you a first year student? The International Student Union (ISU) is here to help!
- How to access healthcare in Ithaca: Take a look at the international student section from Cornell Health website.
Missing home? It’s completely natural to feel homesick at times, but there are several ways to manage it! Here are a few tips to help you cope with homesickness:
- Join international organizations! Cornell’s diverse student body means there are plenty of communities for international students, each offering a supportive environment to help you feel at home. Organizations like the Society for India, the Chinese Student and Scholar Association, the Korean Student Association, the Japan-US Association, the Pan-African Students Association, and the Singapore Students Association are great places to connect with others who share your background and experiences. You can find even more groups through Campus Groups.
- Celebrate International Holidays with your friends! These events can help you feel more connected to your traditions and find a sense of belonging among other students who share similar experiences.
- Stay in touch with family and friends back home! Keeping regular contact with loved ones can provide comfort and help you feel grounded as you adjust to your new environment.
Remember, being an international student at Cornell can be a rewarding and enriching experience, and you’re never far from the support you need. Embrace the resources available to you, and soon you’ll find yourself thriving in both your academic and personal life here at Cornell! You should also be proud of yourself!