Advice for Applicants from an International Education Perspective: Outreach & Assessment Librarian Position

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) invites applications for the position of Outreach & Assessment Librarian at the Sue & Radcliffe Killam Library to begin in Summer 2025. This role offers excellent opportunities for professional growth while contributing to a dynamic, multicultural academic community in Laredo, Texas – a vibrant bilingual and bicultural city. As TAMIU is a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) with a focus on supporting first-generation college students, applicants with an international perspective will find this an ideal setting to make a meaningful impact on global and local student engagement.

Here is advice for applicants considering this exciting opportunity, particularly for those with experience or aspirations in international education:

1. Understand the Value of a Multicultural Campus

TAMIU emphasizes service to a diverse student population of over 8,000, many of whom are first-generation students. For candidates from international backgrounds or with experience working in intercultural environments, this is an opportunity to leverage your global outlook and bilingual or multicultural skills to empower students. Highlight your ability to develop programming or initiatives that reflect sensitivity to cultural diversity in your cover letter.

2. Showcase Outreach Experience in Diverse Contexts

The Outreach & Assessment Librarian position involves fostering partnerships within the university and broader community. If you have experience in international education or community engagement in multicultural settings, be sure to emphasize this in your application. Mention specific projects where you successfully cultivated relationships across cultural and institutional boundaries, such as collaborations with international partners or outreach campaigns targeting diverse populations.

3. Highlight Assessment and Marketing Skills

This role requires expertise in designing assessment strategies and marketing library resources. Applicants with experience in qualitative and quantitative assessment methods within an international academic environment should explain how they used data-driven approaches to improve library services and engagement. If you’ve developed marketing campaigns targeted at global or multicultural audiences, this is highly relevant – include examples of how those campaigns led to measurable outcomes.

4. Express Enthusiasm for Serving First-Generation Students

TAMIU places a strong emphasis on student success, particularly for first-generation learners. If you’ve worked with first-generation or international students, highlight programs, mentoring initiatives, or services you’ve implemented to support their academic and personal development. Demonstrate how your prior experience positions you to make a meaningful contribution to TAMIU’s mission.

5. Prepare a Polished and Detailed Application

Since applications at TAMIU are submitted electronically, take special care to ensure all required documents and details are included. International applicants or those trained outside the U.S. must make sure their qualifications align with this position’s required credentials:

• You must hold a Master’s degree in Library Science or equivalent from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited institution. If your degree was earned internationally, ensure it meets U.S. standards or is recognized by ALA guidelines.
• If completing your degree is still in progress, clearly indicate your anticipated graduation date, as the position requires degree completion before appointment.

Organize your documents in advance and upload them as stipulated in the application system. Pay attention to formatting, grammar, and professional tone to ensure your application reflects your readiness for a role in an international academic environment.

6. Tailor Your Experience to the Job Description

The application requires a cover letter that addresses your specific qualifications. Use this opportunity to demonstrate how your experiences align with the job responsibilities:

• Discuss programs you’ve developed to engage students, faculty, and community members in meaningful ways.
• Provide examples of leading teams, supervising student workers, or organizing outreach events.
• Describe your ability to create innovative marketing strategies, especially using social media platforms, to promote academic resources.

7. Prepare for Your Next Step in Higher Education

This position is an excellent opportunity for early-career or mid-level library professionals to grow within a supportive academic environment. TAMIU offers competitive salaries, generous benefits, relocation assistance, and professional development support, including funding for conferences. Highlight your interest in advancing your career at an institution that values global perspectives and research excellence.

8. Be Mindful of Deadlines and Submission Requirements

The first review of applications begins on April 28, 2025. Submit your materials well in advance to guarantee consideration. Remember that incomplete submissions are not accepted, and you must enter all job application data directly into the system (e.g., avoid writing “see resume”). Once submitted, the system does not allow updates or additional uploads, so plan carefully.

• Required materials include:

– A Letter of Interest or Cover Letter
– Your Curriculum Vitae (CV)
– Unofficial transcripts specifying earned or ABD degree
– Contact information for three professional references

9. Clarify Your Eligibility to Work in the U.S.

As an international applicant, if you require sponsorship for a visa, mention this clearly in your application. Universities in the U.S. may sponsor eligible international hires, and TAMIU has a history of supporting global talent. Be prepared to discuss your immigration status and share documentation if requested during the hiring process.

10. Learn More About TAMIU and Laredo

Immerse yourself in the culture and values of both TAMIU and its surrounding community. Visit TAMIU’s website to explore the university’s initiatives, library services, and mission. Research Laredo’s unique blend of bilingual and bicultural traditions and consider how your perspective and experiences will complement the city’s identity.

For further guidance, candidates may reach out to the Search Committee Chair, Malynda Dalton, at mdalton@tamiu.edu for questions about the role or hiring process.

This position presents a wonderful opportunity to make a meaningful contribution on a campus that values global perspectives, student success, and professional innovation. Best of luck in your application!