By Vania Castillo/reporter
Students interested in International careers should begin preparing with cultural skills needed to become successful candidates, a coordinator said Nov. 15.
In Essential Skills for International Career, a seminar sponsored by the South Campus career center, Monica Bettle discussed skills needed in candidates who want to qualify for international careers.
International does not mean working abroad only, Bettle said.
“An international job involves working for an international company that views the world as its market,” she said.
Bettle said many of those jobs do not require employees to live in another country but do require some traveling and dedication. One of the major obstacles for international jobs, Bettle said, is cultural difference.
“Cross-cultural competence is a critical requirement for candidates,” she said.
Bettle said students should actively participate in international organizations in their communities. This will give them the opportunity to get familiar with the traditions and customs of other cultures.
Studying a foreign language is also a good idea, Bettle said. Learning another language opens up new opportunities in the professional and economic areas and gives students social perspectives they might never have encountered otherwise. TCC offers the beginning levels of Spanish, French and German.
Many universities offer foreign study programs that allow students to get first-hand experience with other cultures and also gives them an opportunity to expand their ability to communicate in other languages.
TCC offers only a few study abroad programs on a regular basis through the school—globalization seminars in Salzburg, photography in Europe and Spanish in Mexico, but other instructors will sometimes plan trips to other countries during the summer or between semesters. Student can find information about those in the TCC schedule of classes or on the TCC Web site (www.tccd.edu).
Students can find information about other studying abroad opportunities through several Web sites, such as www.studyabroad.com and www.youthforunderstanding.com. The sites also include online applications for programs.
Students can contact the career center for more information and guidance about some programs offered in Tarrant communities.
“Getting strong computer, math and economic skills is also a good idea if you are interested in an international career,” she said.
The business industry is constantly growing and opportunities for international jobs also increase, so Bettle said students may want to adjust their academic paths.
“A major in international studies is a good option for those who wish to obtain an international career,” she said.
Locally, the University of Texas at Arlington, University of North Texas and Texas Christian University offer majors in international studies.
Bettle said the travel industry is one of the biggest industries with opportunities in the global market. Working as a pilot, tour guide or manager for a hotel chain are some options.
Other jobs in the business include working as an international consultant or market researcher for companies. People can also work independently as a system analyst working for businesses or government agencies. Bettle said this job requires a vast knowledge of technology.
“Most employers look for some type of experience in their job candidates” she said. “Find the area of most interest to you and begin searching for jobs that have an international aspect. Doing internships during your college career can also be a powerful tool.”
Bettle said becoming aware of the differences in cultures is a great beginning.
“Sensitivity, adaptability and flexibility should be some of the skills of those looking for international jobs,” she said.
“To be able to deal with differences, candidates should have really strong interpersonal skills.”
Students interested in becoming candidates for international jobs can visit the career center. Bettle said she will help students with questions about how to become a better candidate for an international job.
