Talk, Talk, Talk...

One of the best things you can do is to talk to people about your interests. Whether about a particular country or region, a particular field of work or study, or just the idea of getting out into the international marketplace, contacting others who are doing what you want to do, living where you hope to live, or who have gone through the process before you is invaluable. Talking to advisors in the various career centers on campus will help tremendously. As will talking with faculty and staff in the numerous Area Studies Programs here on campus. You might also find individuals with experience in your country or region or field of interest in one of the organizations listed below.

International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience
UW-Madison

IAESTE is a reciprocal exchange program allowing UW-Madison students in a technical field such as engineering, math, and physical and life sciences to work abroad. Our mission is “to develop global skills in tomorrow's technical leaders.” This is accomplished through sending students on internships, arranging housing and social activities for interns we host, raising jobs and fundraising by networking with local companies and professors, and most importantly having a good time while learning more about the world.

Weekly meetings are held on Mondays at 8:00 pm, M1092 Engineering Centers Building (1550 Engineering Drive). For additional information visit IAESTE-Madison’s website.

Two local offices that will guide you through “international” events and people on campus. A list of Area Studies Offices and Resources accessible online is available here.

International Student Organizations
UW-Madison

A list of all the registered international student organizations on campus.

Madison International Trade Association

Local business association focused on the local business community’s international interests. Offers programs throughout the year. The Center for International Business and Education Research (CIBER) on campus is a co-sponsor of MITA events and regularly sponsors 3-5 students to attend MITA events. More infomation on sponsorship, MITA programs, and members is available on the website.

Resources for Students
Wisconsin Alumni Association

One of the great overlooked resources, the WAA offers links to the Wisconsin Future Alumni Association (WFAA) and to the SEARCH program, which “allows experienced alumni to provide valuable career advice and networking information to new grads and other alumni through this online resource.” You can register for access as a student or graduate. The WAA also offers Badger Access (part of the MonsterTRAK.com) which “offers job listings targeted to UW-Madison students and alumni for full-time, part-time, temporary and internship opportunities.” WAA members receive a free six month subscription.

The WAA also lists information on International Alumni Clubs and contacts from Argentina to Vietnam.

UWAA China
Wisconsin Alumni Association China

Campus-based, student-led affiliate of the Wisconsin Alumni Association China. Click on the above link to learn more about the organization, upcoming events, and contact information.

Wisconsin International Student Association

From the website: The main mission of the organization is to represent international students and create networks between international students, international student organizations on campus and other organizations with an interest in international culture, international related issues, etc.

Getting involved in some of the campus and local organizations that offer international opportunities is a great way of meeting fellow students from around the world who share similar interests and are working towards similar goals.