INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Summer in the United States as an International Student

As an international student staying in the United States over the summer, you may be wondering how to spend your time. The summer months offer a unique opportunity to learn more about American culture and engage in new experiences. Read on to learn how to make the most of your time in the U.S. this summer.

Continue Learning

The summer months can go by fast. Your college or university may offer summer courses you can participate in. Typically, summer sessions are split into two parts, meaning you could choose to take one class during the first session and one in the second. You could also choose to take a class in just one of the sessions to allow yourself a break from school. Many summer courses run for six to eight weeks rather than 16 weeks, like a regular fall or spring semester. Taking summer classes may help you stay on track to graduate or get ahead so you can graduate sooner.

Add to Your Resume or CV

You may be able to participate in a summer internship instead of enrolling in classes over the summer. Internships are a wonderful way to explore potential employers and possible career opportunities ahead of graduation. Internships are also a great addition to your resume or curriculum vitae (CV). Be sure to discuss this opportunity with your designated school official (DSO) to ensure completing an internship would not jeopardize your student status.

Another option available to you is getting a summer job on campus. You may be able to continue a job you have during the school year or continue your summer job once the next school year starts. This can be a great way to help cover summer expenses or save for the fall and spring semesters ahead of the next academic year. Adding a job to your resume or CV is helpful when you decide to apply for full-time positions. Building these connections could allow you to establish a list of references to give to future employers too.

Remember to check in with your DSO before applying to any jobs to ensure you’re aware of specific guidelines you must follow to maintain your student status while working on campus. You will also need your DSO’s help to get a certification letter to receive a Social Security number, which is necessary to work in the U.S. In addition, there are tax implications related to working in the U.S. as an international student. You will be taxed on income earned in the U.S. and will need to file a tax return is you are living in the U.S. and earning income or lived and worked in the U.S. in the previous calendar year. If you complete a paid internship, you will likely have many of the same guidelines as someone working on campus. Ensure you are following all rules and regulations by doing your research and following instructions from your DSO.

Experience American Culture

During the summer months, you may notice there are lots of opportunities to experience local community events. There may be festivals, farmers markets and other things to do throughout the summer in the area where you live. Participating in these activities can be a fantastic way to get to know new people and experience American culture.

Another unique opportunity you have by staying in the U.S. over the summer is participating in Fourth of July celebrations. Experiencing how Americans celebrate Independence Day offers insight into U.S. culture. Look for local parades, firework shows and cookouts you can take part in to celebrate the holiday.

The summer months also can be an exciting time to explore the U.S. beyond your college or university community. If there are specific cities or landmarks you would like to visit, plan a trip for the summer if it fits within your budget. See if any friends want to join you. Depending on where you choose to go, you could drive, take a bus or train, or fly. You may even be able to find a study abroad opportunity through your college or university that allows you to visit another city in the U.S. and earn course credits. In addition, you could plan a trip to the hometown of a friend from school. This would allow you to see a new part of the U.S. and have a local there to show you around.

No matter what you choose to do this summer, you will likely start the next school year with new experiences under your belt. The summer months offer you many opportunities to learn and grow, as well as experience American culture in new ways. Be sure to stay on top of any student visa requirements throughout the summer so can enjoy your time in the U.S. stress free and feel prepared for the coming school year.

Sources:

https://usnewsglobaleducation.com/all-advice/summer-is-here-so-what-do-international-students-do-in-the-united-states/

https://www.ice.gov/sevis/employment#onCE

https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/schools/report/dsos-and-the-form-i-20#:~:text=Once%20an%20international%20student%20is,Eligibility%20for%20Nonimmigrant%20Student%20Status.%E2%80%9D

https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/2016/06/f-1-students-learn-rules-summer-employment-and-training