International Students Utilize OPT Program to Navigate U.S. Workforce Challenges
International students in the U.S. are leveraging the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program to gain work experience related to their fields of study. The program, authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, allows F-1 visa holders to work for 12 months post-graduation, with a 24-month extension for STEM graduates. Despite the opportunities, students face challenges in securing jobs due to a lack of U.S. work experience and the complexities of the visa process. Northwestern University reports that a significant number of its graduates are utilizing OPT, with many finding employment in states like Illinois, California, and New York. The program's limitations, such as the requirement for employers to be enrolled in the E-Verify program, further complicate job prospects for international students. 
