Unlocking Career Success: The SPS Internship Program and Its Impact on International Students
The Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS) is committed to equipping students with real-world experience that bridges the gap between academia and industry. One of the most valuable opportunities available to students is the SPS Internship Program, open to both international and domestic students, which has proved to be a game changer—especially for international students looking to launch their careers in the United States.
A Gateway to Professional Growth
Securing a meaningful internship can be daunting for international students because of visa restrictions, limited professional networks, and unfamiliarity with the U.S. job market. The SPS Internship Program addresses these concerns by offering structured internships at SPS in finance, administration, communications, advising, and more.
Additionally, through dedicated career services, résumé workshops, networking events, and mentorship programs, SPS coaches students in their professional development. The SPS Internship Program helps students refine their professional skills, adapt to American workplace culture, and establish valuable skills that serve them well. Steve Cohen, the senior vice dean of SPS, notes, “The purpose of a school of professional studies should always be to prepare students for their role as a professional. Doing so means engaging with our students and helping them understand and participate in the world of work—that is the aim of the SPS Internship Program.”
Industry Partnerships and Tailored Support
Moreover, SPS offers tailored support for international students navigating the complexities of employment authorization, such as curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT). This guidance ensures students can leverage their internships as stepping stones toward long-term career success. Zelon Crawford, the senior associate dean of Student Affairs, is always excited to see how SPS graduates can use the knowledge and skills gained during their SPS internship experience as working professionals. “Seeing what our students do after graduation is one of the best parts of my job,” says Crawford. “Knowing we are instrumental in helping them get there is the other.”
Success Stories: International Students Making an Impact
Many international students at SPS have leveraged their internship experiences to secure full-time positions at prestigious firms. These internships have allowed students to gain hands-on experience, develop industry-specific skills, and prove their value to potential employers. Alumni of the SPS Internship Program are embarking upon opportunities in various industries, from data analysis for major tech firms to financial consulting at leading banks.
Prachi Narang, a student in the Applied Analytics program who hails from India, recently shared how her internship at the SPS Career Design Lab helped her develop critical data analysis skills, making her a strong candidate for a competitive job market. “My SPS internship at Career Design Lab was a great hands-on experience in using data to drive real impact,” says Prachi. Kiki Zhao, a student from China in the same program, remarked on the ways the program has benefited her, saying, “Throughout my time in this role, I’ve strengthened my communication, problem-solving, and data visualization skills. What I appreciate most is the continuous learning process and the chance to apply those insights in a real-world setting.”
For international students, taking advantage of the Internship Program can be a defining moment in their academic and professional journey. Here are some steps to get started:
- Engage with Career Services—Utilize résumé-building workshops, interview coaching, and networking events.
- Understand Work Authorization—Attend SPS-led sessions on CPT and OPT to ensure compliance with visa regulations.
- Network Proactively—Leverage SPS alumni and industry connections to explore potential internship opportunities.
- Apply Early and Strategically. Start your internship search, target companies that align with your career goals, and tailor your applications accordingly.
Kelly Ahn, associate dean of the Career Design Lab, notes the availability of resources available to SPS students: “The Career Design Lab staff are dedicated to supporting students and alumni as they navigate various challenges, including those posed by a volatile and precarious job market. International students in particular can benefit from a dedicated career coach and readily available career tools, which can help to boost their confidence and preparedness in an ever-changing professional landscape.”
The SPS Internship Program continues to be a powerful platform for international students seeking to gain practical experience and launch successful careers. Students enhance their professional skills by participating in and contributing to a diverse and dynamic workforce. Yao Yao, a student from China working toward a degree in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, notes, “As an international student, I joined the SPS Internship Program to bridge classroom learning with real-world challenges. It allowed me to translate academic theories into real-world data-driven marketing strategies. I solidified my data analysis and visualization skills while navigating cross-cultural communication—a unique opportunity to expand my professional tool kit beyond my prior professional boundaries."
For more information, visit the SPS Career Design Lab, or speak with an academic advisor about internship opportunities.
The Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS) was founded in 1995 with a mission to provide innovative—and flexible—programs that help students reach their educational and professional goals. The School offers 18 accredited master’s degrees, 15 certificate and certification programs, and more than 100 areas of study through its Postbaccalaureate Studies and Visiting Students programs. All SPS programs offer a part-time option, and many programs are also available to pursue online.