Job opportunities for international students in Shenzhen

The "Pick Me Up" International Career and Internship Fair kicked off yesterday at Shenzhen University Town in the Nanshan District, drawing over 400 Chinese and international students from various universities and research institutes across the city.

Organized by the Yuehai and Taoyuan subdistrict offices, the fair was designed to enhance job prospects for foreign students in Shenzhen while assisting local enterprises in attracting global talent to support their international development strategies.

Over 30 employers were present at the fair, including top Chinese companies, foreign-invested firms, and businesses expanding into global markets. This diverse range of exhibitors provided numerous job opportunities for attendees looking to kickstart their careers in Shenzhen.

In addition to job placements, the fair offered valuable services such as resume reviews, consultations on work and residence permits, and guidance on the work visa application process. These resources are essential for international students navigating the employment landscape in China.

Nearly 200 foreign students from 58 countries studying at prominent institutions like Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen University, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, and Tsinghua University International Graduate School participated in the event.

Amir Hamza, a media communications Ph.D. student from Pakistan graduating this December, expressed his intention to remain in Shenzhen due to the city’s high-level research capabilities and technological advancements that promise greater opportunities.

Similarly, Ali Vaighan, a Ph.D. student in electrical engineering and control from Iran, highlighted that the job fair was perfectly timed for students seeking employment opportunities.

One anonymous Ph.D. student, who has lived in Shenzhen for seven months, remarked on the rarity of job fairs specifically for foreign students. He viewed this event as an excellent chance for face-to-face interactions with potential employers, which is vital for students unfamiliar with the local job market.

Geng Shijie, an HR manager with SKG, noted that their company had already received several resumes from applicants at the fair. SKG specializes in health diagnostics, electronic devices, and health management services.

Geng said that the company is expanding its global footprint, with plans to hire around 10 foreign employees to aid its growth in markets such as the Middle East, North America, Japan, and Indonesia.

Another popular booth belonged to the Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, which attracted many visitors interested in its internship program. The company offers various positions for interns in production, operations, and marketing, with a monthly stipend of 8,000 yuan (US$1,100) and opportunities for full-time employment upon successful completion of the internship.

Overall, the job fair not only bolstered the employment prospects of international students in Shenzhen but also showcased the city as a vibrant hub for global talent and innovation.