How to address unemployment (international applicant)
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07 Nov 2010, 13:46
Hey guys,
I am hoping to start my MBA in the fall of 2012, and am looking for some advice. I'm sorry to be asking this in the middle of what seems to be a hectic application season, but I hope some of you will have some answers for me.
I have close to three years of work experience in IT, I used to work for a big-shot IT firm in India. I got married last year and moved to the US to be with my husband, who works here. Given the particularly harsh economic climate here (particularly for internationals), I haven't been able to find a job yet. I am wondering how to address this year-long unemployment in my application.
I have been doing some volunteer work during this time, but its just basic stuff and nothing eye-popping that would distinguish me from the regular applicant pool. (teaching high school students, teaching adult literacy classes, Toastmasters, doing some IT - related coursework etc) I enjoyed the time I spent on these activities, but I don't know how much value it would add to my application.
Also, seeing that I have a year to go before applying, could someone give me some suggestions on how to utilize this time well? (My job search is still on at full swing, but protracted unemployment is a possibility that I have to consider, given the H1B visa complexities) I'm sure I'm not the first person to deal with the unemployment situation, and I'd really appreciate some tips on how to navigate this phase.
I'm fairly clear about my career path, and already have a list of school that I'm likely to be applying to. My GMAT is done as well, and I have a pretty good score. My biggest concern is my current unemployment, and if adcoms would view me as someone who is potentially unemployable. Opinions are welcome!