Placement Information at American University

Empowering Your Career Journey in the USA

American University (AU), located in the heart of Washington, D.C., is renowned for its strong emphasis on career development and global employability. For Indian students aspiring to study abroad in the USA, AU offers comprehensive placement support tailored to help you transition seamlessly from academics to professional success. With access to top-tier internships, robust alumni networks, and dedicated resources for international students, AU prepares you for the competitive job market. Whether you're targeting the next intake in Fall 2024 or Spring 2025, our career services ensure you're equipped for Optional Practical Training (OPT), H-1B visa processes, and long-term career growth in fields like business, international relations, public policy, and technology.

Career Services and Support for Indian Students

AU's Center for Career Action is the hub for all placement activities, providing personalized guidance from day one. As an Indian student, you'll benefit from specialized advising on U.S. work authorization, cultural nuances in job hunting, and building a professional network in a diverse environment. Key services include:

• One-on-One Career Coaching: Resume reviews, cover letter writing, and LinkedIn optimization with a focus on highlighting your Indian academic background and transferable skills.
• Mock Interviews: Practice sessions simulating U.S. employer expectations, including behavioral and technical interviews for STEM and non-STEM roles.
• Job Search Workshops: Sessions on navigating platforms like Handshake, Indeed, and AU's exclusive job portal, with tips for Indian students on visa-compliant opportunities.
• International Student Workshops: Dedicated programs covering OPT/CPT applications, H-1B lottery strategies, and employer sponsorship insights to ease your path post-graduation.

Additionally, AU's International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) collaborates with career advisors to address unique challenges, such as adapting to American workplace culture and connecting with Indian professional communities in D.C.

Internship Opportunities

Washington, D.C.'s proximity to government agencies, NGOs, think tanks, and multinational corporations makes AU a hotspot for internships. Over 85% of AU students secure at least one internship during their studies, with many leading to full-time offers. For Indian students, these opportunities are crucial for gaining U.S. work experience under Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or OPT.

Highlighting key sectors:

Sector	Top Internship Partners	Relevance for Indian Students
Government & Policy	U.S. Department of State, World Bank, USAID	Builds expertise in international affairs; ideal for diplomacy or development roles back in India or globally.
Business & Finance	Deloitte, PwC, Capital One	Hands-on finance and consulting experience; enhances employability in India's growing fintech sector.
Technology & Innovation	Google, Microsoft, startups in D.C. tech hub	STEM-focused internships qualify for extended OPT (up to 36 months), bridging to H-1B opportunities.
Non-Profits & Media	Amnesty International, CNN, Brookings Institution	Develops communication and advocacy skills; valuable for social impact careers in India.

AU's Experiential Learning Initiative guarantees internship placements for eligible students, with stipends averaging $20-25/hour. Indian students often leverage these to network with South Asian professionals, fostering mentorships that extend beyond graduation.

Job Placement Statistics and Outcomes

AU boasts impressive placement rates, with 92% of graduates employed or in further studies within six months (Class of 2023 data). For international students, including those from India, the university reports a 78% success rate in securing OPT-approved positions, many converting to H-1B sponsorships.

Key Placement Highlights:

• Average Starting Salary: $65,000-$85,000 USD annually, depending on the field—significantly higher than many Indian campus placements.
• Top Employers: Federal government agencies (25%), consulting firms (20%), tech companies (15%), and international organizations (10%).
• Indian Student Success Stories: Graduates like Priya Sharma (MS in International Development) now works at the IMF, while Rahul Patel (MBA) leads analytics at Amazon, crediting AU's D.C. connections.
• Post-OPT Retention: 40% of Indian alumni secure H-1B visas through AU-facilitated employer partnerships.

The AU Alumni Network spans 100,000+ professionals worldwide, with a vibrant Indian chapter in D.C. and major U.S. cities. Events like the annual South Asian Career Mixer connect you with alumni from IITs and other Indian institutions, sharing insights on dual intent visas and repatriation strategies.

Preparation Resources for the Next Intake

For Indian students applying for the upcoming Fall 2024 or Spring 2025 intakes, start early with AU's online career portal. Enroll in pre-arrival webinars on U.S. job market trends and attend virtual career fairs tailored for internationals.

1. Build Your Profile: Update your resume with AU-specific formats; emphasize GRE/GMAT scores and Indian internships for competitive edge.
2. Network Proactively: Join AU's Indian Student Association and LinkedIn groups for real-time job leads.
3. Leverage Funding: Explore scholarships like the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, which includes career stipends for internships.
4. Visa Readiness: AU's ISSS offers F-1 visa mock interviews and I-20 processing support to ensure smooth transitions.

AU's commitment to holistic career development ensures Indian students not only excel academically but thrive professionally in the USA. With D.C.'s unparalleled opportunities, your AU experience will be a launchpad for a global career—whether staying in the U.S. or returning to India with world-class credentials.

Ready to take the next step? Contact AU's admissions team today to secure your spot and kickstart your placement journey.