Exploring job search experiences of genetic counselors who matriculated as international students in the United States: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

The number of international students being admitted into genetic counseling programs (GCPs) in the US has been consistent for the past decade. While GCPs have made efforts to recruit and support international students during the application process, there is limited understanding of the additional support required by these students to secure employment in the US. This study aimed to explore the experiences and unique challenges of international genetic counselors (IGCs) during their first post-graduation job search in the US. IGCs who graduated from a US-based GCP and were not US citizens at the time of their graduation were surveyed about resources utilized for job search before and after graduating, challenges encountered during different stages of the job search, and sources of support and information used. The survey also assessed the availability of STEM optional practical training program extension (SOE) among GCPs, which enables international students to temporarily work post-graduation in the US while on their student visa. In total, 93 participants completed the survey, most identified as female (93.5%), and aged 25–34 years (61.2%). Participants' citizenships spanned 13 countries at the time of their graduation with largest groups from Canada (53.7%) and India (21.5%). About 65% reported that their GCP accepted international students but did not participate in the SOE program. Furthermore, 45% reported not receiving sufficient informational resources from GCPs and, 62% felt that faculty were unequipped to guide them through job search challenges related to international status. There is a need to extend stakeholders' existing diversity and inclusion efforts beyond admissions to assist the retention of IGCs in the workforce. This exploratory study highlights practical considerations for prospective applicants, GCPs, IGCs and professional societies to adopt that could assist with international graduates' search for employment.