Do you have any resources in the UK that can refer me to a job or help with my employment? Do you know any avenue for funding my master's degree in economics in the US other than the Fullbright?
I am currently in London after graduating with my master's degree in international business from Warwick University. Unfortunately, I have not been able to secure a job due to my visa issue.
I am also planning to get another master's degree in the US in the field of economics and seek jobs there as it is much better than the UK market. I do still need to work in the UK until I get to the US though.
*Note: This is an anonymous question asked by a learner.
3 answers
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Resources for Employment in the UK and Funding for a Master’s Degree in Economics in the US
1. Employment Resources in the UK
Finding employment in the UK, especially with visa constraints, can be challenging. Here are several avenues you can explore:
Job Boards and Recruitment Agencies: Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor are excellent platforms to search for job openings. Additionally, specialized recruitment agencies such as Michael Page or Hays focus on specific industries and can provide tailored job opportunities.
Networking: Engaging with professional networks is crucial. Attend industry meetups, seminars, or workshops related to your field of interest. Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to connect with professionals who might offer insights or job leads.
University Career Services: Since you graduated from Warwick University, utilize their career services. They often have resources for alumni, including job boards, networking events, and career counseling.
Internships and Temporary Positions: Consider applying for internships or temporary roles that may not require a long-term visa sponsorship. These positions can provide valuable experience and potentially lead to full-time opportunities.
Professional Associations: Joining associations related to economics or international business can provide access to exclusive job listings and networking opportunities. Examples include the Royal Economic Society (RES) or the British International Business Association (BIBA).
2. Funding Options for a Master’s Degree in Economics in the US
When considering funding options for your master’s degree in economics in the US beyond the Fulbright Program, here are some alternatives:
Scholarships and Grants: Many universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. Research institutions you’re interested in attending; they often list available scholarships on their financial aid pages. Websites like Fastweb or Scholarships.com aggregate scholarship opportunities based on various criteria.
Assistantships: Graduate assistantships (teaching or research) are common at many universities in the US. These positions typically cover tuition costs and provide a stipend in exchange for work within academic departments.
Government Programs: Some countries have government-sponsored programs that fund students studying abroad. Check if there are any programs available from your home country that support education abroad.
Private Loans: If necessary, consider private student loans from banks or financial institutions that cater to international students studying in the US. Be sure to compare interest rates and repayment terms carefully.
Crowdfunding Platforms: Some students have successfully used crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe to raise money for educational expenses by sharing their stories with potential donors.
By utilizing these resources effectively, you should be able to navigate both your current employment situation in the UK while preparing for further studies in the US.
Probability of correctness: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Angel’s Answer
For funding a master’s degree in economics in the US, beyond the Fulbright, explore scholarships from universities, the Chevening Scholarship, or funding via private organizations like the British Council. Graduate assistantships and loans through organizations like Prodigy Finance or MPOWER Financing can also help finance your studies in the US.
Iryna’s Answer
Navigating the job market and pursuing further education can be challenging, especially when dealing with visa issues. Here are some resources and strategies that may help you with job placement in the UK as well as funding options for your MSc in Economics in the US:
Resources for Job Placement in the UK
University Career Services
Utilize the career services department at the University of Warwick. They may offer job placement assistance, networking opportunities, and workshops that can help you in your job search.
Job Boards and Recruitment Agencies
LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to network with professionals in your field and search for job opportunities. Join relevant groups to connect with alumni and others in the economics field.
Glassdoor, Indeed, and Monster: These websites can help you search for job openings tailored to your qualifications.
Reed and TotalJobs: UK-specific job boards offering a variety of positions across multiple sectors.
Networking Events
Attend local networking events, alumni gatherings, and industry conferences related to economics and international business. Engaging in professional networks can open doors to job opportunities.
Websites like Eventbrite or MeetUp can help you find relevant events in London.
Professional Organizations
Consider joining organizations such as the Royal Economic Society or the Institute for Fiscal Studies. Many of these bodies offer job boards, networking opportunities, and resources for members.
Internships or Temporary Work
Look for internships or temporary positions in your field, even if they are not long-term positions. This experience can help you build your CV while providing valuable industry contacts.
Funding Options for MSc in Economics in the US
University Financial Aid
Many universities provide their own scholarships or financial aid options for international students. Research specific institutions for their offerings.
Check if the universities you are considering offer teaching or research assistantships, which can help cover tuition and provide stipends.
Scholarships and Grants
Look into scholarships specifically for international students, such as:
Chevening Scholarships: Although typically for UK citizens studying abroad, check for any specific programs that may have options for funding through partnerships.
DAAD Scholarships: Depending on the institutions, some universities offer scholarships to international students from various countries.
Institute of International Education: They have various scholarship programs, including the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, which you mentioned.
Private Loans
Explore private loan options for international students from banks or financial institutions that cater to international students pursuing studies in the US. Look for options that do not require a US-based co-signer.
Work-Study Programs
Some US universities offer work-study programs that allow students to work part-time while studying. Check the specifics from the universities you are interested in.
Crowdfunding
Some students turn to crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe or Indiegogo to raise money for tuition. Although this might require significant marketing effort, it can be a potential avenue.
Navigating Visa Issues
Given that you're currently experiencing visa challenges, it may be worth consulting with an immigration lawyer or advisor specialized in UK immigration regulations. They may be able to provide you with options or advice on resolving visa issues, which will also impact your ability to work in the UK while preparing for your studies in the US.
Being proactive and leveraging available resources can significantly improve your chances of finding work and securing funding for your studies. Make use of university career services, job boards, and scholarships while continuing to build your professional network. Good luck with your career and educational pursuits!