A university’s Career Center is one of the most valuable resources on campus, but for many international students, even walking through the door can feel intimidating.
To help students feel more comfortable using campus resources, our University Performance Program advisors at NC State brought them to the Career Development Center (CDC) for a guided tour led by Lindsay McCallister, an experienced career counselor who truly understands the unique challenges international students face. Students met the staff and learned about the range of services available. One of their favorite discoveries was the Professional Clothing Closet, where any student can borrow or even keep suits, dresses, and shoes FOR FREE. This is a huge help, especially for students attending their first job fairs. They also enjoyed the self-service professional photo booth that allowed students to take free headshots using high-quality lighting and camera equipment – perfect for their LinkedIn profiles!
After the tour, Lindsay McCallister and Ashton Poplaski led an engaging and informative session that introduced students to the resources available at the CDC, including job search support, resume reviews, mock interviews, one-on-one coaching, and graduate school application guidance. Many students were surprised by the breadth of support available.
One part of the session left a strong impression on everyone. Lindsay shared a real example where the CDC had helped an international student negotiate not just a higher salary, but also a full relocation package, including a moving stipend and temporary housing. Our students were stunned. Most of them had never imagined they could ask for such things, let alone that they had the right to. It was a powerful reminder that cultural differences can shape how students approach career conversations.
Everyone left the session with a thoughtfully prepared career guide booklet, and more importantly, with the confidence to take that first step: to walk through the door and ask for help.
We’re incredibly grateful to Lindsay, Ashton, and the entire CDC team for their warm welcome and practical guidance. It was an empowering afternoon for our students, and a reminder that there are many kind people to support them on their professional journey abroad.