Career Certificate - International Students (CC-I)
Gain a higher level of career competence and practical skills in order to successfully pursue job and internship opportunities.
Any international student who is considered a residential student may apply for the CC-I program. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend an information session to apply.
Spring 2025 Timeline
- Monday, November 18, 2024 - CC-I Application Opens
- Sunday, January 26, 2025 - CC-I Application Closes at 11:59 pm
Upcoming Information Sessions
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Thursday, November 21, 2024 | 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM | ONLINE
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Tuesday, January 21, 2025 | 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM | The Career Center Conference Room (715 S. Wright Street, Champaign)
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Wednesday, January 22, 2025 | 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM | ONLINE
- Students enrolled in residential degree programs.
- Alumni for one year following graduation are eligible for one 30-minute career coaching session, on-site use of the Career Empowerment Hub (formerly called the Career Resource Library), and access to Handshake.
- Alumni interested in health professions are eligible for pre-health advising at any time.
- Students enrolled in online programs and students who did not receive a degree are not eligible for The Career Center services or programs.
Title
CC-I Program Requirements
To complete the CC-I program, you must:
- Attend and actively participate in at least six of the weekly CC-I workshops.
- Complete assigned milestones and tasks associated with the CC-I program.
The Career Center offers two sections of the CC-I workshops every semester. In Spring 2025, the CC-I program runs between Tuesday, February 11 - and Wednesday, April 16. Participants are able to pick from two sections: Tuesdays from 3:00-4:30 pm (in-person) and Wednesdays from 3:00-4:30 pm (online).
Benefits of the CC-I Program
Plan their career
Develop job search skills
Enhance self-promotion and networking skills
Increase confidence in their career competence
Learn practical strategies for the job search
The CC-I program has been offered by The Career Center since 2012, and in 2016 received the Services to International Students award, a national award presented by the National Career Development Association.
For more information, please reach out to the Senior Assistant Director for Inclusion Initiatives, Dr. Pankaj Desai at pankaj1@illinois.edu.
Apply to be an International Student Career Navigator!
Gain mentoring and peer leadership experience in this unique employment opportunity for international students at The Career Center. Learn more about the International Student Career Navigator Program and the application process!
CC-I Success Story
CC-I Term: Fall '23
Major: Advertising
Minor: Communication
What motivated you to join the CC-I Program?
While planning my graduation and job search, I came across a job application for the program through a newsletter from the career center. As an international student and former Orientation Leader for the New Student Program, I've always wanted to share my experiences to help new students avoid unnecessary challenges. With the goal to further my personal growth and assist others, I applied to join the program.
How would you describe your overall experiences as a CC-I navigator?
My time as a navigator was incredibly rewarding, especially in the interactions with the students in my group. These conversations were not just about guiding them on their career paths but also provided a platform for them to share their insights and experiences with me. Listening to their career plans fueled my drive for a brighter future, motivating me to work even harder.
What was the most meaningful thing you learned or gained in the CC-I program?
One particularly meaningful thing I learned from the program is understanding that meaningful gains require active effort and the pursuit of opportunities. Whether it's during my time learning about networking or searching for a job, actively seeking chances has always been crucial. It's this kind of effort that paves the way to an actual career path.
CC-I Term: Fall '23
Major: Community Health
What motivated you to join the CC-I Program?
I was motivated to join the CC-I Program because it's a gateway for international students seeking to become more confident and competitive applicants. It's a community of like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, all driven by the shared goal of increasing career competence.
How would you describe your overall experiences as a CC-I navigator?
I really enjoyed my time throughout the CC-I Program. It was great meeting people at different stages of their career journey and learning about their individual experiences. Everyone was very friendly, helpful and supportive. The collaborative spirit among all participants and navigators fostered meaningful discussions and allowed us to exchange valuable insights.
What was the most meaningful thing you learned or gained in the CC-I program?
This experience helped me become a more confident applicant. The tailored mentorship, seminars, and hands-on assignments in the CC-I Program helped me refine my application and develop a deeper understanding of my professional capabilities.