Multinational firm keeps Bradley talent stateside

10/13/2010 5:50 PM

In this economy, getting a job is tough.

In the U.S., it’s even tougher if you aren’t an American citizen.

For Martina Stavikova, a Bradley alumna from the Czech Republic, this challenge was a reality.

On top of writing a resume, networking, filling out applications, and going to job fairs and interviews – tasks familiar to all job seekers – Stavikova had to get a work visa.

A work visa allows non-citizens the ability to stay in America while they are employed. In order to get a work visa, a company must first file a non-immigrant worker petition and pay a fee to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. And that isn’t as easy as it sounds.

“Of course now, during the [economic] crisis, many employers refrain from hiring international workers because the work visa is an additional expense,” Stavikova said.

Despite tough odds, Stavikova persevered in her job search and ultimately landed a position as a financial analyst for Bolthouse Farms in Bakersfield, California.

She credits her Bradley Experience with getting her there.

“Bradley has a lot of good resources available for students,” Stavikova said. “One of them is the Smith Career Center. “

The Smith Career Center offers students the opportunity to attend seminars, network with companies and professionals, and attend career fairs. The center also offers résumé review and mock interview services.

Stavikova said she received tremendous support throughout her Bradley Experience.

“What I enjoyed the most about studying at Bradley was without a doubt the excellent FCBA [Foster College of Business Association] faculty and staff,” Stavikova said. “Any time I needed anything, I knew there would always be someone there to listen, care, and have fun with.”

For Stavikova, choosing Bradley was the first step in a successful career path.

“I had a great time studying at Bradley, and I strongly believe that without Bradley I would not be where I am right now,” Stavikova said.