Square, now called Block, is a big name in fintech. They work on payments, data, hardware, and crypto, which makes them a popular choice for international students with strong tech skills. Compared to just applying blindly, getting an internal referral at Square can really boost your chances of landing an interview and getting noticed by recruiters.
The first thing you want to do is figure out which role you want to apply for. Check out Block’s website or LinkedIn to see what jobs are open—software engineering, data analysis, product design, and so on. Once you pick a role, read the requirements carefully and tweak your resume to fit. For example, if the job needs React or SQL experience, highlight projects that show you used those tools, and if you can, add numbers like “helped improve query efficiency by 30%.” Numbers catch attention.
Next, find someone who can refer you. LinkedIn is really helpful here. Search for employees at Square and filter by alumni from your school or people with similar backgrounds. Usually, folks from the same school or major are more likely to reply. When you message them, keep it simple—introduce yourself, say where you study, what kind of job you’re looking for, and mention you’re interested in their company. Ask politely if they’d be open to referring you. Don’t make it too formal; keep it friendly and natural. It’s good to attach your resume or a link so they can quickly get an idea of who you are.
If your school has alumni events or company info sessions, definitely go! Meeting company employees in person can help build a connection. Sometimes a quick chat leads to follow-up emails and a referral invite. Don’t underestimate the power of face-to-face networking.
After you get a referral, remember HR still looks closely at your resume and background. So before the referral goes through, double-check your resume, LinkedIn, and portfolio to make sure everything looks good and is up to date. The better prepared you are, the higher your chances.
At the end of the day, getting a referral is all about combining networking with solid qualifications. If you know what you want, prepare well, and communicate clearly, you can definitely improve your chances. It’s not always easy for international students to get internships, but with the right approach and steady effort, every step helps you get closer to your goal.
Release time:2025-06-24
