What I wish I knew about employability as an international student
PhD student Asma shares what she's learned about employability at Birmingham, and how you can make the most of the opportunities available to students.
When I first moved to the UK, the word "employability" felt intimidating. It sounded like something only confident, experienced people fully understood. As an international student at Birmingham, I sometimes wondered if I was already behind, a new education, a new system, new expectations.
Over time, I realised something important: employability isn't about being perfect or having everything figured out. It's about understanding your strengths, taking small intentional steps, and making use of the support around you. If you're feeling unsure about where to start, here are five practical ways to begin building your employability, starting today.
Start by knowing your strengths
Before updating your CV or applying for roles, take a moment to reflect. What are you good at? What challenges have you overcome? What have you learned from moving abroad?
As international students, we often underestimate our strengths. Adapting to a new culture, studying in a second language, and building independence in a different country all demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and cultural awareness, qualities employers value highly.
If you're unsure how to identify your strengths, the University of Birmingham Careers Network offers skills reflection tools and one-to-one appointments to help you recognise what you already bring to the table.
Build a skills based CV (not just a list of jobs)
Many students believe they lack "experience". In reality, experience goes far beyond formal employment.
Group projects, presentations, volunteering, part-time jobs and society involvement all help you develop transferable skills. The key is to show impact, not just responsibilities.
For example: Instead of writing "Worked in retail", you might say: "Developed strong communication and problem-solving skills while supporting customers in a fast-paced environment."
The University of Birmingham Careers Network runs CV workshops and provides feedback to help you present your experiences confidently. You can also visit the Student Hub for advice and guidance if you're unsure where to begin.
Get involved beyond the classroom
Employability grows through exposure and initiative. Joining a society, volunteering, attending workshops, or networking events can significantly build your confidence and skill set.
The Guild of Students offers a wide range of societies and opportunities to get involved. Even small commitments can help you develop teamwork, leadership and organisational skills.
Taking part in activities outside your course not only strengthens your CV but also expands your network and sense of belonging.
Step outside your comfort zone
Confidence rarely appears before action; it grows after you take it.
Whether it's attending an event alone, applying for an internship before you feel fully "ready", or speaking to a lecturer about opportunities, growth often starts with discomfort.
As international students, we have already taken a significant step by studying abroad. That courage itself is proof of our capability. Sometimes, employability simply means trusting that you are more prepared than you think.
Use the support available to you
Building your future can feel overwhelming at times. That's why support is such an important part of the journey.
If you're going through a difficult period, the University of Birmingham Wellbeing Service is there to help. If you ever have safety concerns or simply need reassurance, University Security is available 24/7. For general advice, practical guidance or signposting to services, the Student Hub is always a good starting point.
Feeling supported allows you to focus on growth with confidence.
As international students, we often underestimate what we already bring to the table. Moving countries, adapting to new systems and building a life in a different culture are not disadvantages - they are strengths.
Employability isn't about being the most experienced person in the room. It's about recognising your value, developing your skills intentionally, and taking consistent small steps forward.
And at Birmingham, you're not building your future alone.