While completing their post-secondary studies in a new country, many international students consider pursuing careers in their new home as well.

To aid their transition to the Canadian job market, the third-annual Employable Expo aims to showcase helpful hints for career-seeking international students to employ during their studies and as they prepare for their next steps.

Taking place Wednesday, Feb. 5 in Market Hall from 1 to 3 p.m., the expo will be hosted by Co-op, Career and Experiential Education, Brock International Services, and Development and Alumni Relations. The event will feature 15-minute sessions for students to interact with guest experts who will speak about a variety of topics, including personal branding, resources in the community and interview skills.

For Labib Rafi (BBA ’18), the sessions available to those in attendance address familiar questions. The junior technical analyst in Brock’s IT office sought advice on many of the same quandaries during his own undergraduate studies.

Originally from Dhaka, Bangladesh, Rafi chose to attend Brock for the Bachelor of Business Administration and Information Systems program. However, he knew that to succeed in his desired career, calculated steps would need to be taken.

“I wanted to build my career and future in this country after my undergrad,” said Rafi.

Having accomplished his goal, Rafi plans to share his experiences with others as one of the event’s guest experts.

“It’s really important to set goals as early as possible and get real experience within the sector you wish to be employed in,” he said. “Employers are looking for relevant skillsets and experiences in the related fields, and to get that, we have to make sure we are building our networks and enhancing our connections accordingly.”

In addition to the available sessions, participants can also choose to have their resumé reviewed and have a professional headshot taken.

Sandra Gruosso, Associate Director of Brock International Services, said the expo is a can’t-miss opportunity for international students wishing to stay in Canada for work.

“The event is essential for international students learning how to navigate the Canadian job market,” she said. “It’s also very gratifying to see successful international alumni returning to campus to share their story and how they were able to pursue a career in Canada.”

As he prepares to share his story with others, Rafi is ready to continue the networking that has helped him so much.

“It’s really beneficial to be in touch with someone who has had similar experiences, especially when you are new to an education system and a country,” he said. “If I had known a little bit more about the options available to me, I would be even further along than I am now.”

To register and learn more about the Employable Expo, visit the event’s ExperienceBU page.