An F-1 visa student in the US is facing a painful reality after being laid off unexpectedly with only five months left on their visa. The sudden job loss has left them torn between continuing the struggle or returning to India.
Torn between hope and exhaustion
The student says they feel lost and anxious about what to do next. Finding another job seems nearly impossible in the current market, where many companies step back the moment they hear “CPT” or “OPT.”
The heavy cost of returning home
They fear the financial setback of returning to India. Despite having nearly nine years of experience, they expect to earn only 10-12 LPA back home a drastic drop from their US salary. The uncertainty has left them emotionally drained.
The painful question
In their own words: “How do you know when to stop trying?” They admit that if they return now, they’ll always wonder what if I had held on just a bit longer?
Shared struggles among students
Many other international students echoed similar experiences. Some were laid off soon after applying for their STEM extension. Others face the same painful choice keep fighting or accept defeat and go home.
Divided opinions, shared fear
Opinions are split. Some students believe it’s time to face reality and leave, while others urge persistence. Yet, everyone agrees on one thing international students are being treated as expendable, and a Plan B is now essential.
A reflection of the US job crisis
This situation reflects the severe employment crisis gripping the United States. For many F-1 students, the dream of a better life abroad is turning into emotional and financial turmoil, with no clear way forward.
