Skip to main content
SFU Student

picture of a bunch of hand-painted bowls

Competition is always fierce when finding a job, particularly for new grads trying to find their first position. Jan Bérubé, Manager of Academic and Administrative Services for the School for International Studies, provides some advice to students within International Studies about how to market themselves, and how to get the most out of their time at SFU.

SFU’s School for International Studies: New Perspectives in International Relations

Conventionally, International Relations programs (traditionally defined as the study of foreign affairs and global issues among states within the international system, focusing on academic and public policy streams) have been offered at most universities but International Studies has emerged in recent years to approach the international realm from a different angle. Jan explains, “International Relations takes a political and governmental aspect, while International Studies is interdisciplinary.” International Studies can be broad, analyzing the world from a sociological or anthropological aspect, and pulling in a range of disciplines from history, to economics, to political science.

The International Studies program at SFU offers students three streams to focus their academic studies. They include International Security and Conflict; Comparative World Politics, Culture and Society; and International Development, Economic and Environmental Issues.

Since International Studies is a fairly new program of study worldwide, students need to be able to properly market their academic background to employers, who may not know much about the field. When applying for a job, students can use their specialization to appeal to employers and differentiate themselves from other applicants. For example, the International Security and Conflict stream prepares students for positions dealing with security of persons and states, conflict resolution, and humanitarian work.

International Experience is Important

Most students who earn an International Studies degree “want to work with NGO’s, aid organizations, international organizations, in diplomacy, or in embassies.” But through studies and other experiences, students can become prepared for a diversity of positions outside this realm if they choose, says Jan, “International studies can trickle down to many different things.”

One of the greatest components of the International Studies degree for students upon graduation is the international experience they get through the required international work or study component of the undergraduate degree program. “If you’re applying for a job these days, any form of something that sets you apart, something that makes you unique, and makes you more competitive as an applicant,” is essential says Jan,“ especially in International Studies, without having international exposure, it’s harder to find jobs.”

Many employers are interested in applicants with international experience. Graduates with international experience are at a greater advantage when applying to international organizations or for positions outside of Canada. Employers want to know that their employees are well-rounded and will be prepared for the culture shock and extreme differences of living and working in another country, particularly developing countries. “While you’re in school, it’s a great opportunity,” says Jan. You can accomplish two feats at once while studying or working abroad by contributing to your degree and gaining international experience at the same time.

For students in International Studies, the option of a Co-operative Education work term abroad through the International Co-op office is a great way to get the international experience employers are looking for as well as build valuable on-the-job skills that can transfer to many other positions, whether they are local or international, after graduation. Amongst many of the opportunities available for students, some of the international positions posted in Spring 2009 that might interest IS students are: internships at the Canadian Embassy in Washington DC, World University Service of Canada Students Without Borders program, and internships at the Inter American Development Bank.

On-Campus Opportunities

Students hoping to create a strong resume can contribute in other ways during their time at SFU. “Students need to look outside of academic studies,” says Jan. They can join “the International Studies student association and attend presentations, talks or series’ through the International Studies department.” Information and insights gained from the presentations, talks or series’ can be used to add to a cover letter, or as a reference point during and interview. Attending special events through the International Studies department or through SFU Career Services’ information session series that hosts employers on campus is also a great way to network and create pathways for future job opportunities.

SFU Student
visibility  84
Nov 15, 2010

You Might Like These... International, Life Experience, Co-operative Education

Korea
International Spotlight: Korea

Bordered by China, Russia, and separated from Japan by the Korea Strait, Korea makes for a strong international hub of Asia.

California
International Spotlight: California

Sunny California is not only one of the favorite tourist destinations but also a state with a variety of opportunities.

Kaleigh sitting on a cliff staring out to the wilderness
My Co-op Work Term in Gaborone | Part Two

In Part 2 of her series, Health Sciences Co-op student Kaleigh Banister gets into the local Gabarone culture and takes a bit of time to explore the natural wonders she’s surrounded by.

You Might Like These... Personal Development

A picture of Nile with people around
By the Nile: A Student's Experience in Rural Africa

The OLC happily presents the following as Craig Vandermeer’s first interview with the OLC after his return from Uganda Fall Semester 2010. Having finished his undergrad at Carleton University with a degree in Political Science, he is continuing his education here at SFU in the International Studies Master’s program.

A photo of the author in front of a beach in Sao Paulo
Working for Your Passions | Part Two | Arrival and Research in Brazil

In part two of Christopher's Brazillian co-op story, he arrives in São Paulo feeling overwhelmed. This all changes as he carries out his research, realizing something very powerful about the connection many Brazilians have to the sport of soccer.  

man sitting at office desk holding dog
Why Co-op is the Most Important Thing You Can Do as an International Student

Being an international student from Bangladesh, I always felt that I did not have the necessary network to succeed in the Canadian workforce even though I feel strongly about my ability to work hard and grow. I felt anxious when looking at my peers who have been working in a job since the age of 16 whereas I was just getting started. This is when I was introduced to SFU Co-op.