Learn more about this program here.
In a major step to boost career opportunities for international students, Folio has partnered with Shorelight Education to create a specialized internship program. This collaboration aims to train and place international students in venture-backed startups that align with student’s skills and passions. By combining Shorelight's expertise in higher education with Folio’s career development technology, the program creates a direct pipeline for students to gain hands-on experience and employers to access top talent.
This initiative responds to the unique challenges international students face in securing internships and breaking into the U.S. job market.
Challenges International Students Face in Securing Internships
Internships are vital for international students to build a pathway to employment in the US. A successful internship can lead to a full-time job offer, VISA sponsorship, and a life in the US. As we know, immigrants are notably hardworking and innovative.
More than ½ of the most valuable startups in the US are built by immigrants. Yet, international students face significant barriers in securing these opportunities.
Work Authorization Issues
For students on F-1 visas, obtaining authorization to work is often a complex and lengthy process. Internships must qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which cause delays and confusion. Many startups avoid hiring international students due to this process.
Competition and Limited Opportunities
Internships are highly competitive, and international students often find themselves vying for the same positions as U.S. peers, leading to lower chances of success. In fact, only 2% of international students secured internships in 2022.
Cultural and Networking Barriers
International students also face difficulties in adjusting to U.S. work culture, building professional networks, and accessing opportunities. These challenges further limit their ability to secure high-quality internships, particularly in fast-paced sectors like technology.
The Bigger Picture: The US Tech Sector’s Reliance on International Talent
The U.S. tech industry is heavily reliant on international talent. In fact, immigrants have founded more than half of Silicon Valley’s startups valued above $1 billion. By empowering international students at the university level to gain professional skills and training, Folio is aiming to increase the innovation and growth that these immigrant populations are already driving. As demand for skilled workers in the tech industry grows—particularly in fields like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity—the tech sector needs more global talent to stay competitive. International students make up a large majority of students studying AI at the graduate level, but they are not being effectively utilized in internships and entry level roles at this time, where critical professional skills are developed.
Folio x Shorelight: A Tailored Solution for International Students
The Folio x Shorelight internship program is designed to break down the barriers international students face. Through this collaboration, students will receive specialized training and placement in high-growth startups, providing them with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and build networks. Shorelight brings deep expertise in supporting international students with language assistance, cultural integration, and career services, while Folio offers powerful career development tools to help students thrive.
This partnership also addresses the growing talent shortage in U.S. startups, particularly in sectors like tech, where skilled professionals are in high demand. By creating a pipeline for international students to enter these industries, the Folio x Shorelight collaboration ensures that both students and startups benefit from a diverse and skilled workforce.
By addressing the barriers international students face in the U.S. internship market, the Folio x Shorelight program is creating opportunities that benefit both students and U.S. companies. As industries like tech continue to rely on global talent, this partnership is helping shape a more inclusive, skilled, and diverse workforce for the future.
Creating pathways to life in the US
We're delighted to train and match Shorelight's outstanding international student community with venture-backed startups in emerging industries.