If you are an international student you have heard about Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a temporary work permit that allows you work for a US employer upon graduation for a minimum of a year. However, STEM majors can work for up to three years according to current USCIS rules.

Although OPT is a great way to gain experience as an International student in the US, it can often be a source of stress due to the strict requirements. For those approaching graduation, you might be nervous if you do not have a job lined up. So, in this article, we are going to share a personal experience from a past international student of what it is like to remain in legal status while job searching on OPT.

What did you study in school and what were your post graduate plans?

Gideon: I obtained my Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. After my undergraduate degree, I naively assumed that getting a job would be a straightforward process. My plan was to gain real world experience in the field of power distribution, and take the knowledge back to my home country.

SASS Team: Don’t worry readers, we will write a future blog post about why assuming the job search process will be straightforward is a grave mistake.

So, When did you apply for OPT?

Gideon: I applied for OPT in November, a month before my December graduation.

SASS Team: Generally, you can apply for OPT earlier i.e up to 90 days before you graduate, and no later than 60 days after you graduate. Figuring out the best time for you to apply is an art, book some time with us to talk through the process if you need some help.

What challenges did you face with job searching?

Gideon: My lack of a green card (a permanent resident status) posed a significant hurdle to the job search process. I wasn’t even considered for interviews because most utility companies have strict policies about hiring international students with only a Bachelor’s degree.

SASS Team: Hiring international students is often considered a herculean task because of the many hoops the employer has to jump. It can be done, and is often done, so don’t be discouraged.

Gideon: If I could do it differently, I would have diversified my coursework so that I could apply to a broader range of companies and not only in the power sector. Nonetheless, I worked on adapting my resume to a more diverse range of companies.

Did you get a job offer immediately?

Gideon: Unfortunately, no. It took many months after graduation before I eventually found a job.

How did you maintain your OPT status?

Gideon: When I didn’t find employment after the 90 day grace period of the OPT, I sought out volunteer positions in a company or organization related to my field. I was able to volunteer in a student-led organization that focused on designing and constructing an electric racing car. This unique opportunity provided me with skills in building electric vehicles, and battery management systems.

SASS Team: Find out more about how to report volunteering positions as part of your OPT and make sure to contact your school’s international office before you do so. In general, even if it took a few months to find a job, volunteering either with an organization or through research is a great way to maintain my status.

Looking back, what would you do differently?

Gideon: Prioritize the pursuit of internships while still in school. There is nothing more disheartening than graduating without a job after having invested significant financial resources. If securing an internship proves challenging, participate in hackathons or join relevant school organizations that align with your field of study. These opportunities provide invaluable exposure beyond the classroom, allowing you to apply and further develop the knowledge you have acquired.

SASS Team: Speaking of internships, make sure to check out our previous series on how to obtain and maximize your internship.

So what are you up to these days?

Gideon: I have a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Southern University and currently work at a 200mm fab, where I manage tool installation projects for semiconductor equipment. My responsibilities encompass overseeing the installation, designing and constructing supporting systems, as well as managing the scope, schedule, and budget of these projects.

SASS Team: In summary, OPT is a unique opportunity for international students to obtain work experience before transitioning to a non-immigrant work visa or becoming permanent residents. Make sure you plan ahead and ensure that you spend that time wisely.