Choosing a university overseas often starts with the degree, city, and tuition fee. One more question is worth asking early: how does the university help students turn learning into experience and career readiness?
DeakinTALENT, Deakin University’s careers service, is one example of the kind of support prospective students can look for. Its services include digital tools, career coaching, events, career-development programmes, and a portal for jobs and internships.[1] This does not mean every university offers the same services, and it is not a guarantee of employment. But a structured careers service can give students a place to practise making informed professional decisions.
Why career support belongs on your university checklist
Academic results matter, but employers also look at how you explain skills, experience, and professional interests. A university careers service can help students practise before recruitment—through resume development, interview preparation, internship searches, or networking.
DeakinTALENT says that stepping-stone roles such as part-time and casual work, volunteering, extracurricular activities, and internships can move students closer to a career goal.[1] The important part is not simply collecting activities; it is being able to explain what you learned through each one.
Five things to check in a university careers service
When comparing universities, look for answers to these questions.
- Is career coaching available? DeakinTALENT offers one-to-one support to identify interests, explore career pathways, and develop a plan; its site lists phone or video appointments.[4]
- Is there job-application support? Check whether students can access feedback on resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, or interview practice. DeakinTALENT also lists digital tools for resume checking, online testing, and video-interview practice.[1]
- Is there access to jobs and internships? A campus jobs board, employer events, and industry projects can help you understand relevant opportunities. Always check the eligibility of each opportunity; portal access, visa status, and employer requirements can differ.
- Does the service consider international students? DeakinTALENT’s International Student Careers Program (DISC) offers events and resources to help international students build professional skills, networks, and career readiness in Australia.[3]
- Does the university direct students to official work-rights sources? A careers service does not replace visa or legal authorities. The DISC page stresses the importance of understanding visa work rights and directs students to the Department of Home Affairs and Fair Work Ombudsman for relevant information.[3]
Using career support from your first year
Do not wait until your final semester. Start with one small target each term: attend a resume workshop, update LinkedIn, try a mock interview, speak with a career coach, or reflect on what you learned from an organisation or part-time role.
Before a coaching session, write down three things: the job type or industry you want to understand, experience you already have, and questions that still feel unclear. DeakinTALENT advises students to reflect on what they hope to gain from an appointment so the conversation can focus on next steps.[4]
Stay realistic and proactive
A careers service can provide structure, feedback, and access to information, but it cannot guarantee an internship or job. You still need to check opportunity requirements, build experience consistently, and follow applicable visa and employment rules.
When choosing a university, also ask who can access its services, whether alumni retain access, how international students are supported, and what industry experience is actually available for your chosen programme.
RIM Education can help you compare overseas programmes and universities, including the questions to ask about career support, internships, and application-document preparation. Contact RIM Education to discuss your plans.
Services, eligibility, work rights, and university programmes can change. Always check the official university website, the Department of Home Affairs, and the Fair Work Ombudsman for current information.[1][3]
Sources
[1] DeakinTALENT — Explore your career possibilities with us