Tips for International Applicants Applying for the Lecturer of Kinesiology Position at Texas A&M International University

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) is seeking candidates for the position of Lecturer of Kinesiology, beginning in Fall 2025. This exciting opportunity offers international applicants the chance to join a forward-thinking Hispanic Serving Institution located in the vibrant bicultural city of Laredo, Texas, USA. If you are applying from an international education perspective, here are some tailored tips to guide your application and ensure a smooth process:

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1. Research the Institution and Community Environment

As an institution committed to student success and research excellence, TAMIU requires its faculty to operate in ways that foster student engagement and community service. To align your application with this ethos:

• Highlight how your global teaching or research experience can contribute to TAMIU’s diverse academic environment.
• Showcase your adaptability to teaching in a bicultural and bilingual city. If you have previously worked with culturally diverse or underrepresented communities, emphasize this in your resume and cover letter.

Use resources like TAMIU’s website to familiarize yourself with their mission and values, and discuss how your background aligns with their objectives.

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2. Understand U.S. Academic Requirements

For international applicants, it’s important to ensure your qualifications meet U.S. academic standards:

• Master’s degree or higher in Kinesiology or a closely related field is required. Verify whether your degree (earned outside the U.S.) corresponds to an American equivalency using credential evaluation services, such as World Education Services (WES).
• Ensure your transcripts clearly specify your degree (only unofficial transcripts are required at the initial application stage).
• If applicable, showcase any teaching certifications, coaching qualifications, or memberships with professional organizations related to kinesiology or health sciences.

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3. Demonstrate Strong Teaching Expertise

The teaching load for this position is 15 credit hours per semester, which typically corresponds to a variety of undergraduate courses in physical education, coaching, fitness, health, and exercise science.

• Highlight your ability to teach in diverse formats: face-to-face, hybrid, and online modes. International applicants should provide examples of innovative teaching methods they’ve implemented, especially in virtual environments.
• Include a mention of flexibility in scheduling, as TAMIU requires availability for morning, evening, or weekend classes. Outline your capacity to adapt your teaching schedule to meet student and institutional needs.

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4. Provide a Clear and Compelling Application Package

Your application needs to be complete, clear, and tailored to TAMIU’s requirements. Here’s advice on the specific components:

• Letter of Interest: Open your letter by expressing enthusiasm for contributing to TAMIU’s mission. Articulate your experience in teaching kinesiology internationally and how it fits in the American and bicultural context of Laredo.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Ensure your CV is comprehensive, highlighting experience in teaching, research, and community engagement related to kinesiology. Use clear formatting and avoid region-specific jargon.
• Transcripts: Provide unofficial transcripts showing your degree conferral. If your transcripts are issued in a non-English language, submit certified translations alongside them.
• References: Select professional references who can verify your teaching experience, research contributions, or adaptability to working in a multicultural environment. If possible, include references familiar with American higher education norms.

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5. Be Aware of Immigration and Employment Requirements

If selected, non-U.S. citizens will need to obtain work authorization (such as a visa) to legally accept employment.

• Familiarize yourself with visa options like the H-1B (Specialty Occupations) or O-1 (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability) categories.
• Mention in your application whether you are eligible for U.S. work authorization or require sponsorship. TAMIU is a member of the Texas A&M University System and has experience hiring international staff, so they may assist with visa sponsorship.

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6. Make the Most of Professional Development Opportunities

TAMIU offers financial support for professional development, such as attending academic conferences. International applicants should demonstrate how they plan to leverage these opportunities.

• Highlight previous research presentations, conference participation, or publications that show a commitment to expanding knowledge in kinesiology.
• If you have experience participating in international collaborations or bringing diverse perspectives to research, mention this as a strength.

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7. Carefully Follow Application Submission Guidelines

TAMIU uses an online platform for applications, and adherence to its submission process is crucial.

• Application materials must be uploaded in one session – there’s no option to save your progress. Before starting, prepare all required documents in the appropriate format.
• Remember, “See resume” or incomplete data entries are not acceptable and may lead to your application being rejected.
• Double-check all uploaded files for accuracy and completeness.

Consider bookmarking the application portal and reviewing the instructions provided on the page.

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8. Prepare for a Criminal Background Check

Like most U.S. academic positions, employment at TAMIU is contingent on a criminal history investigation and verification of credentials.

• If this process is new to you as an international applicant, reach out to the Search Committee Chair for clarification on procedures.

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Final Note for International Applicants

This position is a unique opportunity for kinesiology educators seeking to teach in a globalized, bilingual academic setting. When applying, emphasize your cross-cultural competencies, global teaching experiences, and ability to adapt to different academic environments. Reach out to the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Seong Kwan Cho (scho@tamiu.edu), if you have any questions or require clarification before submission.

Good luck! With thorough preparation, international expertise, and a commitment to student success, you can stand out in this competitive applicant pool