Summary:
In this interactive workshop, Emma Frierson and Taylor Bryla from the UF International Center
empowered participants with strategies to effectively market their international skills and
experiences to employers. They shared insights from NACE research on what employers’ value
most and introduced practical tools like the STAR method to help students communicate their
skills in a compelling way during interviews.
Key Takeaways:
● Employers hire based on skills, not just major or experience.
● It’s your responsibility to articulate the skills you’ve developed through international
experiences.
● The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a clear and effective way to answer
behavioral interview questions.
● Practice is essential. Rehearse STAR responses before interviews for the best results.
Why this matters:
International experiences such as studying abroad, learning languages, or engaging in
cross-cultural projects, develop highly sought-after skills like adaptability, problem-solving, and
global awareness. However, these skills only make an impact if you can translate them into
employer language. By mastering techniques like the STAR method, you position yourself as a
candidate who not only has unique experiences but can clearly demonstrate how those
experiences add value to an organization.
Resources:
To learn more about the NACE career competencies >
https://www.naceweb.org/career-readiness/competencies/career-readiness-defined
To learn more about the International Scholars Program >
https://internationalcenter.ufl.edu/international-scholars-program/getting-started
Tips for using the STAR Method > Interview Question Describe a Time You Had To Work on A Team – Career Connections Center University of Florida
