5 Mistakes International Students Make Before Starting Their Tech Journey in the US (Free Guide)
Stop risking costly mistakes — start your US tech journey with a clear, step-by-step plan.
Avoid the errors that derail students before day one—unclear program fit, missed timelines, weak paperwork, no support plan, and unrealistic budgets—and learn what to do instead so you arrive prepared and confident.
Developed by Dr. Rose Shumba — nationally recognized mentor, USM mentoring award recipient, featured in The New York Times.
DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR?
Over 20 years of mentoring international students, I've heard these same regrets again and again:
- "I chose my program based on rankings—didn't know it had no internship pipeline."
- "Missed all the internship deadlines because I didn't know the timeline."
- "Spent $3K on fees I never saw coming."
- "My program doesn't qualify for OPT in my field."
- "I'm struggling because I wasn't prepared for the US system."
- "I feel isolated and don't know how to network here."
- "I wish someone had told me about the hidden costs before I arrived."
WHAT'S INSIDE THE FREE GUIDE:
This isn't just another checklist—it's a mentor's roadmap based on 20+ years helping international students succeed in US tech programs.
You will learn:
- The 5 Critical Mistakes International Students Make Before Starting
- Real examples of avoidable missteps—and how to stay ahead
- Practical strategies used by international students now thriving at Google, Microsoft, and top tech companies
- How to navigate visas, timelines, and hidden costs—before it's too late
Plus proven approaches used by international students now working at leading US tech companies.
WHO THIS GUIDE IS FOR:
This resource was created for:
- International students preparing to study tech in the US
- Current international students navigating US programs
- Parents and families investing in US tech education
- Academic advisors helping international students
Your tech career isn't just about a job. It's part of your purpose. Our mentoring approach is grounded in faith and built on the belief that every student is a mission field—regardless of where they come from.
MESSAGE FROM DR. ROSE SHUMBA:
Having mentored hundreds of international students over two decades, I've witnessed both the triumphs and the heartbreaks. The students who succeed don't just work harder—they start with better information.
This guide contains the essential wisdom I share with every international mentee. These 5 mistakes can derail your entire US journey, but they're completely avoidable when you know what to look for.
Dr. Rose Shumba
Tech Career Mentor & Educator
Want Ongoing Support?
You don’t have to navigate U.S. tech careers alone.
- Confirm your situation as an international student planning to study or work in tech
- Use our free AI-powered assessment to check your readiness and avoid costly mistakes
- Get expert tools to understand U.S. tech roles, timelines, and requirements
- Choose the right coaching level and program to build your personalized success roadmap
