Integrating Career Development and Immigration Planning: A Pilot Program for International Scholars

Abstract

International graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in the United States face unique challenges at the intersection of career development and immigration planning. Despite their high representation in U.S. research institutions, international scholars often lack access to integrated resources that address how their immigration status influences career mobility, decision-making, and long-term career planning. To address this gap, we developed the Effective Career and Immigration Planning for International Scholars (ECIP) program, a seven-session workshop series designed to align participants career development with their U.S. immigration goals. Grounded in Social Cognitive Career Theory, the ECIP program introduces the concept of the immigration portfolio: a strategic collection of evidence documenting accomplishments and credentials valuable for both academic success metrics and an advanced degree holders permanent residence petition. Here, we present the pilot implementation of this program and report its evaluation, which included pre- and post-program surveys, weekly polls of call-to-action task, and follow-up communications with participants. Our results demonstrate significant increases in participants self-reported knowledge and confidence to take action towards their career and immigration goals. Post-program survey responses showed higher agreement levels on understanding immigration portfolio preparation and permanent residence options, demonstrating the programs effectiveness in addressing knowledge gaps. Engagement data revealed that participants consistently completed the proposed action items from workshops, aligning with the sessions learning objectives. Participants considered the program relevant and empowering. Follow-up responses indicated continued progress toward the immigration goals of participants. Our findings underscore the critical need for integrated career and immigration planning. The ECIP program offers a scalable, evidence-based model for supporting international scholars in navigating their professional development in the United States.