Support Strategies for International Students

10 golden rules of graduate School for International Students (Avoid Costly Mistakes) A new country, system, and culture. There’s a lot more to figure out than academics. Having mentored many students over the years, here’s what I believe every F-1 student needs to know. 1️⃣ Never Accept a PhD Offer Without Funding → Rule of thumb: If a PhD program doesn’t offer funding, walk away. → Accepting an unfunded offer can lead to unnecessary financial stress and even dropout. 2️⃣ Don’t Assume Fees Will Magically Be Paid → Coming to the U.S. as an F-1 student without a clear plan for funding is risky. → Some students think opportunities will appear after arrival, but I’ve seen far too many drop out or transfer to cheaper community colleges when reality hits. 3️⃣ Protect Your F-1 Visa Status → Violating your visa conditions can lead to termination of your F-1 status and, worse, making you illegal in the U.S. → This can have long-term consequences for your career and immigration prospects. → Stay informed about the rules and follow them strictly. 4️⃣ Don’t Work Without Proper Authorization → Whether it’s on-campus jobs or internships through CPT (Curricular Practical Training), ensure you’re authorized to work. → Working without authorization is a severe violation. 5️⃣ Explore Loan Options if Necessary → While taking on loans isn’t ideal, it can be a lifeline in worst-case scenarios. → ensure you choose a school with a track record of supporting international students and strong employment outcomes. 6️⃣ Stay 10 Steps Ahead → As an F-1 student, you need to think beyond the present. → Plan your next steps—whether it’s OPT, internships, or post-graduation opportunities. 7️⃣ Be Part of a Community → Isolation can make your journey harder. → Find a community that supports you. 8️⃣ Beware of Well-Meaning but Misguided Advice → Many of your family members or friends here might mean well, but they don’t understand the nuances of the F-1 visa. → Be careful who you listen to—always verify advice with experienced international students or the Office of International Services (OIS). 9️⃣ Understand the Academic Expectations → The academic culture in the U.S. may differ from what you’re used to. → Learn the grading systems, participation expectations, credit hour requirements, etc. 🔟 Focus on Networking as Much as Academics → Beyond your coursework, the connections you build can define your career path. → Attend events, connect with professors, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn. ********************* Bonus point: Get Health Insurance! → Health care in the U.S. is expensive, and without insurance, even a minor medical emergency can lead to significant financial stress. → Ensure you’re covered by your school’s health plan or secure private insurance. → This is non-negotiable! #InternationalStudents #HigherEducation #F1Visa #GradSchool #Mentorship

Long post alert - I don’t care if it gets zero engagement because I wrote it specifically for one person. 💌 Dear Oluwanifemi Ayodele, Grad school is hard. But for a self-sponsored international student, it’s a different kind of hard. It’s balancing 20+ hours of work a week with a full academic load, juggling research deadlines while worrying about rent, tuition, and visa restrictions. It’s the exhaustion of knowing there’s no safety net—just you, your resilience, and the determination to make it through. ↳ Here are some practical strategies to help you navigate this challenging journey: 1). Master the Art of Financial Planning: ➜ Break down your tuition and living expenses early so you know exactly how much you need each semester. ➜ Look for assistantships, scholarships, and emergency grants—some schools have hidden funding pools you won’t know about unless you ask. 2). Find Work That Works for You: ➜ Prioritize jobs that align with your career goals & interests so you gain experience while earning. ➜ Network with professors—they often have short-term projects or funding opportunities that aren’t publicly advertised. 3. Optimize Time Like a Pro: ➜ Set clear boundaries—dedicate specific hours for work, study, and rest to avoid burnout. ➜ Learn to say no. Every commitment outside of work and academics should add value to your growth or well-being. 4). Build a Support System: ➜ Don’t isolate yourself. Even if it feels like no one understands your struggle, connecting with peers in similar situations will make a huge difference. ➜ Join student organizations or communities that support international students—they often share insider tips on jobs, funding, and mental health resources. ➜ Find mentors—professors, professionals, or alumni who have walked this path can offer invaluable guidance. 5). Take Care of Your Mind & Body: ➜ Sleep is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Poor health can cost you more than any paycheck will cover. ➜ Use campus mental health resources. Many international students struggle in silence—don’t be one of them. ➜ Schedule downtime, even if it’s just a walk, a hobby, or a phone call home. A reset can boost productivity and motivation. ↳ You’re Not Alone in This! Self-sponsoring grad school as an international student is a test of endurance, but it’s also a testament to your resilience. The skills you’re building—time management, adaptability, financial discipline—are shaping you into a powerhouse. I am rooting for you! Yours in Faith and Determination, Amaka Ifeduba, Ph.D. Feel free to repost ♻️ to help other international students in this situation. #elevateyourprofessionalpresencewith_Amaka

Every August, countless #students move to the United States to pursue their educational aspirations and dreams of a better future. As someone who's been through this journey, here are some things I wish I had known when I first moved here: ♦ Build a Support Network: Make friends – lots of them. Homesickness & loneliness are the first challenges you'll face. The friends you make in university will become your new family, supporting you through difficulties and celebrating your successes. ♦ Be a Savvy Spender: Research before spending money. Whether it's phone plans, health insurance, or loans, there's often a more affordable alternative to mainstream options. ♦ Network Relentlessly: Start networking from day one. Set up a #LinkedIn profile & prioritize it over other social media platforms. Connect with experienced professionals, set up 1:1 coffee chats, & absorb as much knowledge as possible. Apply for summer internships & co-ops as soon as your semester begins – they're crucial for post-graduation job prospects. ♦ Utilize University Resources: Make the most of your International Student Office & Designated School Official (#DSO). They're invaluable, often underused resources that can guide you through your immigration journey. Additionally, take advantage of your university's Career Services Center for resume help, soft skills development, & networking opportunities. ♦ Understand the Immigration System: Educate yourself about #OPT application deadlines, unemployment time frames, & alternative visa routes. Knowledge is power in navigating this complex system. ♦ Explore Alternative Visa Routes: #H1B isn't the only option. Consider #O1 and then #EB2NIW/ #EB1 pathways. Start building your profile during your Master's program by gaining research experience & publishing papers. Document everything meticulously – it will be invaluable for future visa applications. Interestingly, you can start your own company on a student visa & work for your company during your OPT. ♦ Plan for the Long-Term: Recognize that the wait times for a Green Card in America are exceptionally long – potentially decades. If immigration freedom is a priority for you, consider alternative countries. While the US offers excellent earning potential, be prepared for long-term immigration challenges. ♦ Choose Part-Time Jobs Wisely: Stick to on-campus jobs limited to 20 hours per week. Avoid off-campus employment, which can jeopardize your immigration status. Be cautious about high-risk jobs like working at gas stations, where some #F1 students have unfortunately been victims of crime. As a personal commitment, I'm volunteering my time to support new students transitioning to #America. If you're a new student seeking guidance, feel free to reach out & schedule a call with me. There are no fees associated with this service. While I may not have all the answers, I'll do my best to help you navigate your challenges & point you in the right direction. Link in the comments!

What I Wish Every University Career Office Told International Students As someone who's navigated the international student journey, I've learned that building a career in a new country plays by different rules than what most university career offices prepare you for. Here's what I wish someone had told me earlier: 𝟭. 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 - way earlier than you think I learned about OPT and visa options through random forums rather than structured guidance. By the time I could confidently explain sponsorship to employers unfamiliar with the process, precious time had slipped away. If you're reading this as a freshman or sophomore, research your options now. 𝟮. 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 After months of sending resumes into the void, my breakthrough interviews came from networking events, introductions from friends, and even cold LinkedIn messages. For international students especially, these connections can make all the difference. 𝟯. 𝗧𝗲𝗹𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹 Companies (especially startups) want to know: Who are you? Why this company? Why you? Your unique international perspective can be your greatest strength when framed correctly. 𝟰. 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗮 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 The visa hurdles and rejections will make you wonder if it's just you. It's not. Finding others who've walked this path before me was invaluable - not just for practical advice but for the emotional support of knowing I wasn't alone. To every international student reading this: don't be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to immigrant professionals and alumni. Most of us are eager to pay it forward because we remember exactly how it feels. The journey is challenging, but you're more resilient than you know. What advice would you add for international students navigating their early careers? Get news and updates as they happen with the weekly Unshackled newsletter - https://lnkd.in/dt78CrpF #InternationalStudents #CareerAdvice #ImmigrantJourney #WorkVisa

If you're an international student who just graduated, this post is for you. I came to the US on an academic and athletic scholarship at 18. I’ve been on an F-1 visa, done the whole STEM OPT thing, and built my career from scratch here. No family, no connections, no favors. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: You can’t afford to move like everyone else. Most students start figuring things out after graduation. For international students, that’s already too late... So here’s what I’d be doing right now if I were you: 1. Get clear on the companies that will even consider you. Use tools like MyVisaJobs or H1BGrader. Cross-reference with LinkedIn filters (E-Verify, visa sponsorship) and stop wasting time on dead ends. 2. Make your LinkedIn undeniable. Your profile should do three things: → Tell your story → Prove your skills → Make someone want to message you If it doesn’t, fix it. 3. Treat DMs like applications. I've never seen someone get hired because of a "Hi, can you refer me?" message. I have seen it happen after thoughtful, well-timed outreach rooted in value. 4. Document, don’t perform. Show the work. Post the project. Share the lesson you just learned. Visibility > perfection. 5. Track everything. Build reliable systems. If you’re serious, treat your job search like a job. Know your timelines. Know your next step. The most dangerous place to be on OPT is passive. It’s tough. I know. I’ve lived it. But the ones who win are the ones who move different. #InternationalStudents #JobSearchTips #OPT #STEMOPT #CareerAdvice #DataScienceCareers #LinkedInTips #EarlyCareer #VisaSponsorship #WorkInTheUS #H1B #Graduation2025 #LinkedInNews

Breaking News: If you’re an international student or planning to study in the U.S., your education & career plans could be at risk. Major funding cuts are forcing universities to slash programs, freeze hiring, reduce graduate admissions & even revoke offers. The hardest hit? University-based research funding. Grants from institutions like The National Institutes of Health—which support thousands of PhD students & researchers are being drastically reduced. 🔹 University of Pennsylvania- 32+ graduate programs have been cut, including Arts & Sciences, History & English. Even some offered contracts are being revoked. Estimated NIH funding loss: $250M. 🔹 The Johns Hopkins University announced the termination of 2,000+ jobs following the administration’s decision to cut $800M in grants. This is the LARGEST layoff in the university’s history. 🔹 Columbia University– 65% of incoming Ph.D. students in Arts & Sciences lost their spots. Projected funding loss: $200M per year. 🔹 Yale University– University administrators have limited funding for PhD scholars to temporary, short-term support. 🔹 UC San Diego – The biological sciences department is reducing student admissions for the next academic year. 🔹 North Carolina State University– A hiring freeze is in place. Potential NIH research funding loss: $20M-$23M. 🔹 Stanford University & University of Louisville– Hiring freezes for faculty and staff, with 24+ other universities following suit. Even “Feed the Future”, a U.S.-funded agricultural research program, is being defunded, forcing 19 research labs in 17 states to shut down. 12,500+ students, scholars & professionals are already affected. And with proposals to increase taxes on university endowments from 1.4% to as high as 21%, financial pressure on universities is only growing. If you’re affected, here’s how you can take control: 1. Find alternative funding: Check for university-backed grants & private fellowships. You can look for crowdfunding too. 2. Consider global hubs: Countries like Germany, Canada, and the UK offer generous scholarships, lower tuition & better post-study work opportunities. 3. Tap into industry sponsorships: Tech, AI & biotech companies often fund graduate research, so explore corporate sponsorships. Remote research partnerships with European & Asian universities can keep your work going. 4. Make most of your options: Use OPT & CPT to gain work experience in the U.S. Consider transferring to more affordable institutions or pursuing research in other countries. 5. Build strong networks: Tap into LinkedIn, alumni groups & associations for funding & job leads. Some companies fund PhD research in exchange for partnership. The landscape is changing, but I personally believe America continues to be a land of opportunities for those who are persistent & resilient. Stay informed, be proactive & explore global alternatives to grow your career. If you or someone you know has been impacted, DM or email me for help.

Studying abroad in the US is a dream for many, but the reality comes with challenges that few talk about. We chose this path knowing it wouldn’t be easy. But that doesn’t make the struggles any less real. It comes with challenges - visa stress, financial pressure, cultural adjustments, and the toughest one: job hunting. I remember sending out 100s of applications, facing constant rejections, and refreshing my inbox daily, hoping for a breakthrough. The uncertainty was overwhelming. Seeing others succeed while I was still struggling made it even harder.  Looking back, the journey wasn’t easy. But every challenge taught me valuable lessons that helped me grow into the professional I am today. But through this journey, I’ve learned a few truths that I hope will help: 1️⃣ 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠. The biggest mistake? Waiting too long to start the job search. If you’re an international student, start early. Networking, building skills, and preparing applications take time - don’t wait until the last semester. 2️⃣ 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞. Your connections will open more doors than your resume. Reach out to alumni, professionals, and peers who’ve walked this path. Informational interviews, LinkedIn outreach, and networking events can make all the difference. 3️⃣ 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐣𝐨𝐛 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐬. The job market has completely changed from how it was back in 2021. Not every company sponsors international students - but that doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. It means you need to be strategic about targeting the right companies, those who see the value of global talent. 4️⃣ 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟. There’s no room for hesitation. Cold-email professionals, connect with recruiters and ask questions. Many people are willing to help, but you have to take the first step. 5️⃣ 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭 𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝. The job market is evolving, and so should your approach. It’s not just about working hard - it’s about working smart. Show impact, highlight your skills, and demonstrate results. To every international student feeling lost, frustrated, or overwhelmed—you are not alone. The journey is tough, but it’s worth it. Every rejection, every challenge, every late-night struggle is shaping you into someone stronger. If you’re still in the process, keep pushing forward. Your breakthrough is coming.  If you found this helpful, feel free to ♻️ repost it with others who might benefit. Follow Mohammed Wasim for more job search tips, resources, and advice tailored to international students! #jobsearch #internationalstudents

If I were an international student gearing up to come to US this fall, here are the things I would consider before moving. I came to the U.S. in December 2021 as a student, and there was so much I didn’t know. Here are some truths, suggestions & advice so you don’t make the mistakes I did : 1. A millions international students come to the U.S. every year, 30% of which are Indians. I came to the U.S. with an experience of 6 years, which boosted my chances of landing my dream job. If I were you, I’d only move if I have at least 3 years of experience, due to the shift in job trends for new grads. 2. I did know my chances of landing H1B weren’t great, but I still heavily banked on it. Today if I were moving, I would move knowing and planning around NOT getting an H1B, & being able to pay off my student debt in 1 year and still saving up enough for a fresh start in 3 years of OPT. 3. When I was moving, influencers had started talking about US talent visas. Now, the same conversation is going on full throttle. Talent visas aren’t for everybody because you need to be extremely intentional while building up your profile. My advice would be to get a professional eye on your profile & chances before relying on an influencer’s word. 4. My job hunting was pretty haphazard starting out, and I was applying to 3 different roles initially. Today, I know how to only target ONE role that matches with my on ground experience, so as to maximise call back chances. 5. I came to US thinking not being able to do a summer internship wouldn’t matter. But it did. If I were able to do a summer internship, I would probably have landed an offer before the start of my last semester. Hence now, I advise against spring intake. 6. I came with the mindset of wanting to befriend everyone, even ones whose goals, values and objectives were not even remotely close to mine. Today, I advise about mingling with everyone but also understanding who needs to be a part of your inner circle. Quality over quantity. 7. I networked for referrals. I did get them, didn’t convert them. I never went back to any of them again, because I hadn’t worked on getting to know them or building a relationship. Be intentional about relationship building. 8. I realised too late that my school gave free subscriptions to an interview prep & a CV optimizing tool, which I could’ve used. So, ask, ask, ask. 9. Career services at school is a very valuable resource that most people never bother to make use of. Reach out to them in advance, schedule 1-1 chats, ask for help. I did CV reviews with them and found them immensely helpful. 10. Don’t underplay the importance of a good roommate. In a stressful situation, it can be make or break. If you can’t come back to a peaceful home, you won’t survive. Pick your roommates wisely. That’s it. Repost if you found this helpful. P.S. I’m Shreya Mishra Reddy, an international student in the U.S. & I write to help others like me succeed. Follow along.

After my last post, many international students reached out asking for practical steps. So here’s a quick breakdown of what’s helping F-1s land jobs right now: 🧭 1. Build a Target List Target mid-sized companies with recent H-1B history (check: myvisajobs.com). These firms often hire OPT candidates and move faster than big tech. 🤝 2. Referrals Are Gold Cold applying? Low response. Referrals? Game changer. Reach out to alumni or connections, ask for a 15-min chat, and then gently request a referral. 📦 3. Portfolio > Resume Show, don’t just tell. A quick Notion page or portfolio with 2–3 solid projects (with real metrics!) stands out 10x more than a plain resume. 🧩 4. Bridge Roles Work Internships, fellowships, and contract roles are converting into full-time gigs. Try: Simplify.jobs, RippleMatch, Intern Supply. 🎤 5. Interview Like an Athlete Mock practice weekly. Use Pramp or Interviewing.io. Track your feedback. Improve fast. You’re not “just” an F-1 student — you’re adaptable, global, and skilled. The right role is out there, and strategy makes all the difference. If you’re in the process, drop a comment or DM me — happy to connect, refer, or share resources 🤝 #F1Visa #STEMOPT #OPTJobs #JobSearch2025 #InternationalStudents #CareerTips #ReferralsWork #ImmigrantStrong

When I moved to the U.S. as an international student to pursue my Master’s in Data Science at Columbia University, I knew it would be an expensive and intense journey. But by the time I graduated, I wasn’t just debt-free—I had actually earned money during my program. How? I strategically combined research assistantships, internships, and scholarships throughout my Master’s. From the very beginning, I sought out research assistant positions, and by my second semester, I secured one that fully covered my tuition and provided a generous stipend. During my summer break, I balanced two internships—one at Columbia and another at IBM —while continuing to work on impactful projects and research. By graduation, I wasn’t just financially ahead, but I had also built a portfolio of high-impact work that propelled my career. Here’s my advice for anyone looking to do the same: 1️⃣ Be proactive about research assistantships: Most professors don’t advertise openings. Reach out directly, express interest in their work, and show how your skills can contribute to their projects. 2️⃣ Ask about scholarships, always: Even at private universities, scholarships and tuition waivers exist. Make it a point to ask professors or program coordinators and negotiate whenever possible. 3️⃣ Never skip negotiations: Whether it’s a stipend or internship salary, don’t settle for the first offer. Many positions are negotiable, and advocating for yourself can significantly increase your earnings. 4️⃣ Choose long-term value over short-term gains: Focus on projects, internships, and assistantships that align with your career goals. While jobs like working in a library or cafeteria might provide instant money, they don’t contribute to long-term success. To my fellow immigrants and international students: I know how overwhelming it can feel to chase your dreams in a new country, often with limited resources and endless challenges. But trust me, every opportunity is out there waiting—you just have to go after it. Be resourceful, stay persistent, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or put yourself out there. Your Master’s program isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about building a foundation for your future, creating opportunities, and proving to yourself just how far you can go. You’ve got this—let’s make it count! What strategies or lessons have shaped your journey? I’d love to hear your story. 👇👇👇 Share this with your network ♻️ Follow me (Aishwarya Srinivasan) for AI insights, news, and educational resources.