Seize Your Superpower
Out of state students bring a unique perspective and bold spirit to UCSB by choosing to pursue their education far from home. By stepping outside of your comfort zone, you have already demonstrated self-reliance, autonomy, and flexibility—qualities that are highly valued by employers and graduate programs alike.
As an out of state student, you have access to resources that help you discover career options, gain experience through jobs and internships, get hired for meaningful opportunities, and explore graduate school to continue your academic journey after UCSB.
Career Services is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are planning to launch your career in California, return to your home state, or explore opportunities elsewhere, we are committed to helping you clarify your goals and take action toward success.
Career Services is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are planning to launch your career in California, return to your home state, or explore opportunities elsewhere, we are committed to helping you clarify your goals and take action toward success.
As an out-state student, here are three items you can quickly immerse yourself during your academic journey at UCSB:
- No wait and drop by anytime to the Career Resource Room - no appointment needed to see a career counselor to help with your career goals!
- Explore Handshake and look for an internship, on-campus, part-time or full-time job in California or within proximity to your hometown!
- Check out our calendar featuring career workshops and events this quarter to help prepare you to be career ready!
Key Campus Resources @ UCSB
Provided by Career Services.
Get Hired: Out of State Students
For complete information on assessing yourself, choosing majors, and exploring careers, review our starter tips to Get Hired in all careers as well as the specialized tips on this page.
Building Your Network
As an out of state student, one of the most valuable steps you can take is to develop a professional network in both California and your home state. While at UCSB, build connections with faculty, staff, and peers by engaging in mentorship programs, student organizations, and career events. You can also connect with UCSB alumni through the Gaucho Network and LinkedIn, many of whom live across the country and can provide advice and insights into different industries and locations.
When job searching, making targeted connections in more than one geographic area helps expand your opportunities and gives you the flexibility to choose where you want to launch your career after graduation.
Balancing Career Goals Across Regions
Out of state students sometimes face unique questions when deciding whether to stay in California after graduation or return to their home state. You may also experience pressure from family or friends to pursue a job closer to home. To navigate this decision confidently, start early by researching industries in both locations, comparing career pathways and identifying employers that align with your values.
The Career Exploration page offers strategies to help you evaluate your options, so you can make an informed choice that fits your personal, professional, and financial goals.
Highlighting Your Adaptability in Interviews
Interviews are an opportunity to share your story and experiences with enthusiasm. As an out-of-state student, you can highlight the adaptability, independence, and resilience you developed by relocating to pursue your education. These qualities are attractive to employers, as they demonstrate your ability to thrive in new environments and handle transitions with confidence.
Rather than minimizing your achievements, practice explaining your academic, work, and extracurricular experiences in ways that show employers the transferable skills you have gained. Emphasize how your perspective as an out of state student has broadened your outlook and prepared you to succeed in workplaces.
Learn More
Explore state and national conferences (e.g., National Career Development Association Conference, National Association of Student Personnel Administrators Conference or industry-specific career fairs) to connect with employers and peers beyond UCSB. These events can help you gain insights into the job market, strengthen your networking skills, and prepare for career success wherever you decide to live after graduation.
When applying for jobs, make sure to communicate your geographic flexibility. Employers often see relocation as a challenge for candidates, but as an out of state student, you have already proven you can adapt to a new environment and thrive. Highlight this in your applications and interviews as evidence of determination, perseverance, and career readiness to succeed in different locations.
