International Student Finds Value Outside The Classroom

My on-campus job prepared me for an international career after graduation -- By Kaylee Moore

I came to St. Thomas University in 2010 from the United States. Fredericton’s community warmly welcomed me, and my four years at STU have not only given me endless memories, I have also developed lifelong friendships. I always thought university was about academics and meeting new people—and of course, having a good time.

While focusing on completing my degree—to better my life and career prospects—I never imagined my on-campus job would become more valuable than just grocery money. I’m now three months from graduating, and have multiple full-time job options, which is a great feeling. Many of these positions I would have never found without the employment opportunities I took advantage of as an international student. I’ve worked in the recruitment office at St. Thomas University for three years.

College fairs, webinars, trip planning and overall communicating have helped refine the necessary skills for an array of jobs. My work on projects for both domestic and international recruitment has significantly expanded my resume, and my network of contacts. I applied for this job because I needed money, but after three years I’ve created one invaluable experience to propel me into a career after graduation. When I’m not found in the recruitment office, I’m showing prospective students around campus as a campus tour ambassador.

I work as the online editor for the University of New Brunswick’s student newspaper (the Brunswickan), and I am interning in the marketing department of an international software company. It’s one thing to study your major in a classroom, but to harmoniously apply it in the work environment has given me career-building skills which have positioned me well for the real world.