Emissary for Graduate Diversity Blog

Securing Full-Time Roles After Graduation: A Graduate’s Guide

Posted on March 4, 2025 by rwasata

Harshitha Mosali

Graduate Student, Masters in Computer Science

Graduating is exciting, but navigating the job search can be overwhelming. There are countless job application sites, LinkedIn and its influencers, books, blogs, and YouTube videos offering advice. However, this blog aims to highlight key career services offered at IU and insights from alumni to help you land a full-time role.

University Career Services: Your First Stop

At IU, each school has dedicated career services that actively support students in their job search journey. These services provide personalized guidance, workshops, and networking opportunities that can make a significant impact on your job search. Some examples include:

O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs Career Hub
The Career Hub at O’Neill works exclusively with students from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. It is your centralized spot for career education and professional advancement, serving both current students and alumni. The team of professional staff is available for in-person, phone, or virtual meetings. Services include resume and cover letter reviews, job and internship search strategies, networking guidance, interview skills, and job offer negotiation. The Career Studio is a collaborative space where students can drop in for walk-in support from career coaches and peer educators, open Monday to Friday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Additionally, the Hub offers assistance with graduate school applications, LinkedIn and personal branding, and internship for credit approval.

School of Public Health Career Services
Career Services at the School of Public Health connects students with employers, focusing on public health careers. They partner with initiatives like Ascend Indiana, linking emerging talent with over 300 Indiana employers. The Career Kickstart Professional Development Program engages students in coursework, career coaching, seminars, and networking events to enhance career readiness. Students gain support in job search strategies, internships, and graduate school applications. Resources include professional headshots, CV/cover letter reviews, networking opportunities, and job offer negotiation. Services also cover career exploration, career fair preparation, interview coaching, resume writing, and portfolio development.

Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering Career Services
Exclusively serving Luddy School students, the career services team provides one-on-one coaching, mock interviews, and career counselling to help students navigate job opportunities in the tech industry. They offer tailored support for technology-focused careers, including job search strategies, networking, and skill-building workshops. Services like cover letter reviews, interview coaching, and industry-specific career fairs are available. Students can also take career development courses to gain experience and strengthen their skill sets. The Luddy Career Fair, held each September and January, brings over 100 employers to campus, offering next-day interview opportunities and direct job applications. Additional support includes job and internship postings, interview prep, and expert coaching to guide students from job search to salary negotiation.

Walter Center for Career Achievement
At the Walter Center, the focus is on helping students discover their interests and achieve a lifetime of meaningful and fulfilling work. The center provides career coaching, career courses that offer academic credit, and a comprehensive online Career Planning Guide. Students can access personalized job and internship matches, connect with alumni through the Walter Center Success Network, and attend various events such as career fairs and webinars. The center helps students take actionable steps toward their career goals and provides resources to enhance their professional development at every stage.

Career services teams actively organize workshops, coaching sessions, and networking events to support students at every stage of their job hunt, from resume-building to salary negotiations. Career fairs, for instance, are an excellent way to network with recruiters, understand industry expectations, and refine interview skills. Make sure to check your email and career services websites for these events and sign up to make the most of these opportunities.

Additionally, IU offers several resources to support graduate students and postdocs in their career journey:

Navigating Diverse Careers: A Symposium for Graduate Students
The Graduate Career Diversity Symposium (GCDS) was established in 2022 as part of IU’s participation in the Ph.D. Career Pathways project (2019–22) organized by the American Association of Universities. Coordinated with seven other institutions, this initiative studied ways to make diverse career pathways visible, valued, and viable for all Ph.D. students and postdocs. This annual event is an opportunity to build communities of practice, foster curriculum development responsive to students from diverse backgrounds, and provide graduate students and postdocs with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in a range of careers. The Graduate Career Diversity Symposium will focus on this aspect of graduate education and highlight how advanced skills can serve graduate students in diverse career pathways.

Graduate Career Coaching and Consulting
Career consulting and coaching opportunities are available for all master’s and PhD students at the Graduate School Bloomington. Services support students in understanding how their advanced education and experiences connect to the world of work and how to design manageable steps and strategies to prepare for the future. One-to-one appointments, group sessions, and workshops are offered for exploratory students working to discern their optimal career path and for those engaged in an employment search within or outside of academia.

No matter the phase of graduate education, there is support in exploring pathways and taking steps toward a meaningful career.

Harnessing the Power of the IU Alumni Network: Insights and Strategies

IU’s alumni network, with nearly 775,000 members globally, is an invaluable resource for students and recent graduates. This network spans all fields, offering access to professionals who can provide job referrals, mentorship, and industry insights. Many IU alumni are happy to help fellow Hoosiers by offering advice, sharing opportunities, or connecting you with hiring managers. Whether you’re seeking advice on a specific career path or looking to network with professionals at a particular company, the alumni network can be a critical asset in your job search.

Alumni Insights: Learning from Those Who’ve Been There
Let’s hear from Mysha Ahmed Chowdhary, a 2024 Master of Public Health graduate, who successfully navigated the job search process:

“Searching for a job after completing my MPH was both exciting and challenging. As an international student, I faced hurdles like visa sponsorship and finding positions that aligned with my interests and academic background. One of the most effective strategies I used was utilizing my network, reaching out to professors, attending career fairs, networking events, and connecting with alumni on LinkedIn. These efforts helped me discover opportunities and gain insights into roles that I wouldn’t have found otherwise. I also tailored each application to highlight my research, leadership experience, and public health expertise. My advice to fellow students is to start early, be proactive in networking, and don’t hesitate to seek mentorship. The job search process can be daunting, but staying focused and adaptable will lead you to the right opportunity.”

Graduates have shared that proactive networking, leveraging career services, and attending job fairs played a significant role in securing their full-time roles. Their biggest piece of advice? Start early, be persistent, and use all available resources.

Networking and Job Search Tools: Maximizing Your Reach

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for job seekers, especially when it comes to connecting with IU alumni. You may discover an IU alum working at a company you’re interested in. In my experience, I’ve found at least one IU alum at every company I’ve explored. Sending them a connection request can open up valuable conversations about the company’s culture, hiring process, and opportunities.

HigherEdJobs and Government Job Boards
For academic and public service careers, platforms like HigherEdJobs and USAJobs are invaluable. HigherEdJobs specializes in academic roles, offering opportunities in higher education, from faculty positions to administrative roles. USAJobs focuses on federal positions, providing access to numerous government job opportunities. Both platforms are essential for those pursuing careers in academia or public service, with detailed listings and application instructions.

In addition to the traditional job boards, AI-powered job search tools, like Simplify, Jobvite, and SeekOut, help you identify the best-fit job opportunities by analyzing both your resume and the job descriptions. These tools use AI algorithms to match your qualifications and experience with available job postings, making it easier to apply for roles that align with your skills. They not only scan resumes but also assess your profile and career preferences, presenting job listings with the highest likelihood of a successful match. By automating much of the search process, these tools save time and increase your chances of landing the right job.

For International Students: Navigating Work Authorization and Visa Support

For international students, securing work authorization is crucial for finding employment in the U.S. Options like OPT, H-1B, and Green Cards offer pathways to work authorization. The Office of International Services (OIS), provides guidance on these processes, assisting you in navigating the requirements of U.S. work authorization.

If you have a promising job opportunity in the U.S., but your potential employer is unsure about the H-1B visa process, the IU Immigration Bridge® program can assist you in securing an offer. This program, a collaboration between your school’s career center, OIS, and the law firm Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy LLP, helps streamline the H-1B visa process for employers. While it doesn’t guarantee visa sponsorship, H-1B approval, or employment, it significantly increases your chances of being recruited by both on-campus and off-campus employers seeking international talent. This is a valuable resource for international students navigating the complexities of work authorization in the U.S.

Moving Forward: Your Path to Success

In today’s competitive job market, securing a full-time role requires more than just sending out applications. It’s about building meaningful connections and being strategic. Simply applying online isn’t always enough—networking, attending career fairs, and leveraging alumni connections are crucial to improving your chances of landing that job interview.

The combination of persistence, preparation, and making use of the right support systems will help you navigate the process with confidence. Let’s continue to support and uplift each other in this journey—every connection made, every event attended, and every effort put in brings you one step closer to your dream job.

Wishing you all the best on the journey to success!

Finding Your Mentorship Path: A Guide for Graduate Students

Posted on February 25, 2025 by rwasata

Alexis Briggins

Ph.D. Student, Department of Counseling Psychology

Navigating graduate school successfully often depends on building strong mentoring relationships that can guide your academic journey and future career path. Graduate students have access to diverse mentorship opportunities that extend beyond traditional academic advisors. Understanding how to find, connect with, and maintain these valuable relationships can significantly enhance your graduate school experience and professional development.

Understanding Different Types of Mentorships

Mentorship comes in various forms, each serving different aspects of your academic and professional growth. Your primary academic advisor provides guidance on your research and academic progress, but expanding your mentorship network can offer additional perspectives and opportunities. Consider seeking mentors who can support different aspects of your development.

Research Mentors: Faculty members who share your research interests and can guide your scholarly development
Professional Development Mentors: Industry professionals or alumni who can provide career guidance
Peer Mentors: Advanced graduate students who can share their experiences and strategies
Teaching Mentors: Faculty or experienced Associate Instructors who can help develop your pedagogical skills
Identity and Belonging Mentors: Faculty, staff, or advanced students who share your background and can provide guidance on navigating academia while maintaining authenticity and building a sense of belonging

Finding Potential Mentors

Building a strong mentorship network requires strategic planning and initiative. Here are effective approaches to identifying potential mentors:

Departmental Connections: Start within your department by attending faculty research presentations, brown bag seminars, and departmental social events. These venues provide natural opportunities to learn about faculty members’ research interests and connect with potential mentors in your field. Many departments also maintain lists of faculty research interests and current projects on their websites.

Cross-Disciplinary Opportunities: Look beyond your department for mentors who can provide different perspectives. IU’s research centers and institutes often host events where you can meet faculty from various disciplines.

Professional Organizations: Join professional organizations in your field and attend their events. Many have local chapters or student groups at IU that can connect you with both academic and industry mentors. The Graduate and Professional Student Government (GPSG) is particularly valuable for networking and support. As the university-sponsored student government for all graduate and professional students at IU-Bloomington, GPSG has been serving graduate students for over 35 years. While supported by the University Graduate School, GPSG is entirely student-run and student-driven, serving over 10,000 graduate and professional students across all schools and departments. They provide:

Advocacy for graduate student interests
Academic support and professional development grants
Travel awards for conference attendance
Community building events and networking opportunities
Access to essential resources and funding
Regular social events to connect with peers across disciplines

Building and Maintaining Mentoring Relationships

Once you’ve identified potential mentors, developing and maintaining these relationships requires thoughtful effort and clear communication:

Making the Initial Connection: When reaching out to potential mentors, be specific about your interests and what you hope to learn from them. A well-crafted email that demonstrates familiarity with their work and explains why you’re seeking their mentorship can make a strong first impression. Consider asking for a brief meeting to discuss your shared interests rather than immediately requesting a formal mentoring relationship.

Setting Expectations: Once a mentoring relationship begins to form, have an open discussion about expectations, including:

Meeting frequency and preferred communication methods
Goals for the mentoring relationship
Boundaries and time commitments
Specific areas where you’re seeking guidance

Maximizing Mentorship Benefits

To get the most from your mentoring relationships, consider these strategies:

Regular Check-ins: Maintain consistent communication with your mentors through scheduled meetings or updates. This helps build trust and ensures continuous progress toward your goals. Be prepared for these meetings with specific questions or topics for discussion.

Active Engagement

Take initiative in the mentoring relationship by:

Following through on suggestions and advice
Sharing your progress and challenges
Asking for feedback on your work
Expressing gratitude for their time and guidance.

Professional Development Opportunities

Work with your mentors to identify growth opportunities, such as:

Conference presentations
Publication opportunities
Grant applications
Teaching experiences
Leadership roles in professional organizations
Jobs

Navigating Advisor-Advisee Challenges

While the goal is to maintain positive mentoring relationships, conflicts between advisors and advisees can arise. It’s important to know how to address these situations professionally and what resources are available to help:

Early Intervention Steps:

Document specific concerns and incidents in writing
Have a direct, professional conversation with your advisor about your concerns when possible
Seek guidance from your Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) or department chair for advice
Consult with the Graduate Mentoring Center for strategies to address challenges

When to Consider Institutional Steps: If initial attempts to resolve conflicts are unsuccessful, or if the situation is severe, you may need to take formal action:

Connect with your department’s Graduate Studies Committee
Consult with the University Graduate School about policies and procedures
Consider requesting a change of advisor if the relationship becomes untenable
In cases involving harassment or discrimination, contact the Office of Institutional Equity

Support Resources: Remember that you’re not alone in navigating these challenges. Several confidential resources are available:

Student Advocates Office
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Graduate Mentoring Center

The key is to address concerns early while maintaining professionalism throughout the process. Your graduate program and the broader university community have resources and procedures in place to help you navigate these challenging situations while protecting your academic progress.

Resources and Support at IU

Indiana University offers several resources to support mentoring relationships:

The Graduate Mentoring Center: This center provides workshops, resources, and individual consultations on developing effective mentoring relationships. They offer guidance on finding mentors and maintaining productive professional relationships.

Walter Career Center for Career Achievement is a dynamic community of career advocates dedicated to helping students discover and achieve meaningful careers. They believe in transforming career planning from an overwhelming task into an exciting journey of self-discovery and professional growth.

Their experienced team provides comprehensive support through:

One-on-one career coaching
Career planning courses for academic credit
Professional development workshops
Industry connections with employers and alumni
Skill-building opportunities
Personalized guidance at every stage

In addition, several schools have career centers within as well (i.e. School of Public Health Career Coaching)

Conclusion

Successfully navigating graduate school and preparing for your future career requires more than just academic excellence—it requires building a strong network of mentors who can guide your development. At Indiana University Bloomington, the opportunities for finding and connecting with mentors are abundant, but they require your active engagement and initiative. By thoughtfully building these relationships and maintaining them throughout your graduate career, you can create a support system that will benefit you well beyond your time at IU.

Advice for Navigating Indiana University as a Disabled and/or Chronically Ill Graduate Student

Posted on February 4, 2025 by rwasata

MarChe’ Daughtry

Ph.D. Student, Department of Gender Studies

February 2025

Being a graduate student can be a rewarding yet challenging experience and being disabled and/or chronically ill can add additional challenges. This blog post will walk disabled and chronically ill students through some of the supportive resources IU offers and provide advice that may help students increase their access to campus spaces.

Accommodations

A crucial aspect of graduate student life is that students often occupy multiple roles. For instance, a graduate student may be enrolled in courses and have a Student Academic Appointment (SAA) as a teaching assistant or instructor for an undergraduate course and/or a research or graduate assistantship where they work directly for a faculty member, department, or center. Each role requires students to consult with a different office to receive accommodations.

When students need accommodation for a course, they must contact Accessible Education Services (AES). This office provides classroom and testing accommodations for students with qualifying medical conditions. AES can connect students to the Assistive Technology and Accessibility Centers (ATAC), which offers consultation services, alternate formats for course materials, assistive hardware and software, and training for most assistive software available at IU. As scheduling consultations, training, and accommodations can take time, students should submit documentation to AES as soon as possible. This will help ensure accommodations are in place before the semester starts.

While AES provides classroom accommodations, the Office for the Vice Provost for Faculty and Academic Affairs (VPFAA) administers accommodations for graduate students with teaching appointments. If a graduate student has a non-teaching position, they may need to receive accommodations from the Human Resources office’s ADA coordinator. For the Office of the VPFAA and the ADA Coordinator, students should be aware of the roles and responsibilities associated with their appointment or job as those requirements are what these offices will use to help determine reasonable accommodations. Depending upon where a student is in their program and their academic appointment, it is possible that a graduate student would need to be in contact with more than one office at a time.

Additional Campus Resources

Graduate students using a personal vehicle may want to consider contacting the Office of Parking Operations for a Disabled Parking Permit. This permit allows people with qualifying disabilities or medical conditions to access disabled parking which includes restricted areas at the center of campus.
Graduate students have access to the Student Health Center which contains a medical and eye clinic and provides access to a pharmacy, lab, physical therapists, nutrition/dietician support. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is also located in the Health Center and CAPS staff offer workshops and support groups that graduate students may find helpful. While it is not an explicit resource for disabled and chronically ill students, this is a good place to establish primary care, and the staff can connect students with any specialists they may

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips student should keep in mind:

Students should contact building managers. Managers are usually a student’s point of contact when it comes to any issues with accessing buildings on campus. It is a good idea for students to know the building manager for the spaces where their department and classrooms are located. It can sometimes be difficult to know who the building managers are, so students can contact facilities staff, and they can help locate the correct person.
If a student has questions about accessible spaces, they can reach out to facilities staff. Given how large IU’s campus is it can be challenging to find specific information about campus spaces and facilities staff can assist students in finding information about accessible event, study, or quiet spaces on campus.
Students should be aware of their school’s leave of absence policies. Each school at IU has guidelines governing leave of absence for students. While not all graduate students with disabilities or chronic illnesses will need to take a leave of absence, it can be helpful to understand these policies in case leave is ever needed.
Do not hesitate to utilize community resources. Graduate students not only have access to on-campus services offered by IU, but they can also take advantage of off-campus resources. Offices such as Accessible Education Services often have information about these resources they can provide students.

Navigating graduate school with a disability or chronic illness can be confusing and challenging, but with on and off-campus resources, students can be successful at IU.

Unlocking the Full Potential of IU Libraries: A Graduate Student’s Guide

Posted on January 29, 2025 by rwasata

Gayathri Pothireddy

Graduate Student, Masters in Information Science with a specialization in Data Science

Winter 2024/25

Embarking on your graduate journey at Indiana University Bloomington is exciting and challenging. To support you in this endeavor, IU Libraries offer a wealth of resources beyond traditional books and study spaces. This guide aims to introduce you to these invaluable services, ensuring you can fully leverage them throughout your academic career.

Navigating IUCAT: Your Gateway to Library Resources

IUCAT is Indiana University’s comprehensive online library catalog, granting access to millions of items across all IU campuses. You can search for books, journals, multimedia materials, and more with your university login credentials. The platform offers advanced search options, including keyword, title, subject, and publisher searches, to help you locate your needed resources.

Access IUCAT: IUCAT Library Catalog

Personalized Research Assistance

IU Libraries provide access to subject-specific librarians who are experts in various academic disciplines. These professionals can assist you in refining research topics, locating specialized materials, and mastering citation tools. You can schedule one-on-one consultations to receive tailored guidance for your research projects.

Find Your Subject Specialists: Subject Specialists Directory

Technology Lending Services

Beyond traditional materials, IU Libraries offer technology lending services through the Wells Library Makerspace. Located on the first floor of the West Tower, the Makerspace provides access to various equipment, including 3D printers, sewing machines, and more. All are welcome, and no previous experience is needed.

Explore Technology Resources: Wells Library Makerspace

IU ScholarWorks: Access and Contribute to Scholarly Research

IU ScholarWorks is Indiana University’s open-access repository, managed by the IU Libraries, dedicated to disseminating and preserving the scholarly work of IU students, faculty, and staff. This platform allows you to explore a vast collection of theses, dissertations, and research papers across various disciplines, providing valuable insights into your areas of interest. By depositing your work into IU ScholarWorks, you ensure that your research is freely accessible to a global audience and assigned a stable, permanent internet address, facilitating consistent citation and long-term availability. This not only enhances the visibility of your research but also contributes to the broader academic community.

Learn more about IU ScholarWorks: IU ScholarWorks

The Lilly Library: A Treasure Trove of Rare Collections

Established in 1960, the Lilly Library houses rare books, manuscripts, and special collections, offering unique artifacts for research and exploration. Notable items include a copy of the New Testament of the Gutenberg Bible and Thomas Jefferson’s personal copy of the first printing of the Bill of Rights. The library also features the Jerry Slocum Mechanical Puzzle Collection, comprising over 34,000 mechanical puzzles, the largest collection of its kind. Access to the Lilly Library is open to all, and appointments can be made to view specific items.

Plan Your Visit to the Lilly Library: Lilly Library

Diverse Study Environments

IU Libraries offer a variety of study spaces to suit different preferences. From quiet zones for focused study to collaborative areas for group projects, you can find a spot that meets your needs. Graduate students can also access the Graduate Commons, a dedicated space designed to support advanced study.

Reserve a Study Space: Study Spaces at IU Libraries

Access to Extensive Databases and Interlibrary Loan Services

IU’s library system provides access to a wide range of research databases, including JSTOR, ProQuest, and IEEE Xplore. If a needed resource isn’t available within IU’s collections, the Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service allows you to borrow materials from other libraries at no cost.

Explore Databases: IU Libraries Databases A-Z

Utilize Interlibrary Loan Services: Interlibrary Loan

Workshops and Events for Skill Development

IU Libraries regularly host workshops on topics such as data management, digital tools, and scholarly communication. These sessions are designed to equip you with skills that complement your academic pursuits. Additionally, events like dissertation boot camps and stress-relief activities during finals provide both support and a sense of community.

Stay Updated on Events: IU Libraries Events

Conclusion

Indiana University Bloomington’s libraries are integral to your academic success, offering resources and services that extend far beyond traditional expectations. By familiarizing yourself with these offerings, you can enhance your research capabilities, streamline your workflow, and enrich your overall graduate experience. Take the time to explore these resources and make them a part of your academic journey.

Advice for International Students: Preparing for Admission and Maximizing Opportunities During Your Studies at IU

Posted on November 12, 2024 by blgrademissary

Carolina Zapata

Graduate Student, Master of Architecture, Eskenazi School of Art and Architecture.

November 2024

Embarking on the journey as an international student can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially when navigating the complexities of graduate studies in a new country. At Indiana University (IU), students will find various resources, opportunities, and support systems designed to help them thrive. IU’s mission of fostering diversity, inclusion, and academic excellence creates an environment where international students can feel at home and succeed academically. Whether preparing for admission or planning your next steps after arriving at IU, here are some tips to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience.

Before Admission: Laying the Groundwork

Before applying to IU, it is helpful for international students to research their chosen programs thoroughly. This includes understanding application requirements, such as standardized tests (TEPAIC, GRE, TOEFL, etc.), program deadlines, and visa procedures. Early communication with potential advisors or professors can also be beneficial, especially for those interested in research or teaching. Establishing a connection before admission provides insights into program expectations and possible research opportunities. Professors and mentors at IU are generally welcoming to prospective students who show initiative and passion for their field, making early outreach a valuable step.

Building Relationships with Advisors and Mentors

One of the most important aspects of succeeding in graduate school is maintaining a productive relationship with your academic advisor. Regular communication and setting clear expectations can foster a positive working dynamic, which is essential for your educational and professional development. Many students benefit from seeking additional mentors through research teams, professional organizations, or campus groups. Collaborating on projects and participating in networking events can help international students build valuable professional connections at IU and beyond.

Finding Resources at IU: A Supportive Academic Environment

IU is committed to providing resources that support both academic growth and personal well-being. Campus libraries offer quiet study spaces, access to research databases, advanced technology, and workshops on research skills.

When facing academic or personal challenges, taking a proactive approach can help. For academic issues, follow these steps:

Consult Your Advisor: Advisors are often the best first point of contact. They can offer guidance, clarify expectations, or suggest solutions.
Seek Assistance from the Department Chair: If the issue persists, contacting the department chair may provide additional support or resources.
Explore Campus Resources: IU’s Office of International Services (OIS) is a key resource, offering guidance on visa matters, academic support, and adjusting to life in the U.S. OIS also hosts events that foster community among international students. Additionally, IU’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers mental health support, while the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL) provides resources to enhance teaching and learning skills.

Patience may be necessary, as processing times for certain services can be lengthy, but IU’s dedicated support system can help you adapt and succeed.

Opportunities as a Graduate Student Academic Appointee (SAA): Challenges and Growth

For international students, becoming a Graduate Student Academic Appointee (SAA) offers a variety of valuable experiences and financial support. IU offers four main types of SAA roles:

Associate Instructor (AI): Responsible for teaching or assisting in courses.
Research Assistant (RA): Focuses on assisting faculty in research projects.
Graduate Assistant (GA): Supports administrative or programmatic functions in academic departments.
Community Assistant (CA): Works in residential settings to support campus housing services.

Each role comes with its own challenges and growth opportunities, helping students gain skills in teaching, research, or administration. Adapting to a new academic culture may feel challenging, especially for non-native English speakers, but resources like the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL) provide workshops and consultations on classroom strategies, student interactions, and communication skills. Balancing these responsibilities with coursework can be demanding, yet many find the experience boosts their leadership, time management, and public speaking abilities—qualities essential for future academic and professional success.

Navigating Life in Bloomington: Practical Advice

Adjusting to life in Bloomington as an international student takes time, but various resources make the transition smoother. Preparing for winter is crucial, especially for students from warmer climates. IU hosts winter preparation workshops and offers resources for finding housing, navigating the campus bus system, and locating grocery stores with international foods. Small adjustments like these can make a big difference in feeling settled.

Bloomington International Student Ministries (BISM) also provides support, offering incoming international students up to three pieces of furniture to help set up their new homes—available to anyone, regardless of religious affiliation. Beyond these services, Bloomington is a welcoming city with a vibrant cultural scene. IU’s cultural centers, such as the Asian Cultural Center and La Casa Latino Cultural Center, offer spaces for students to celebrate their heritage and connect with peers.

Conclusion: A Path to Success at IU

While being an international student comes with unique challenges, Indiana University offers a welcoming and supportive environment where students can thrive. Through the university’s extensive resources, diverse community, and commitment to academic excellence, international students can navigate challenges and make the most of their experience. By taking advantage of the opportunities available, international students can succeed academically and contribute meaningfully to the IU community.

Carolina Zapata Bustamante is an MFA student in Architecture at the Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design.