How does work after studying in the USA pan out?

For students who have graduated from a US university, what was your experience finding work afterwards? Did the degree significantly help with job placements, and how challenging was it to secure a visa to stay?

The process of finding employment after studying in the United States can look different for everyone, but it's generally informed by a few key factors: the field you've chosen, the level of degree you've attained, your networking skills, and your visa status.

Roughly speaking, the degree you earn in the U.S. can indeed enhance your job prospects. Many employers look favorably upon a U.S. education, recognizing the strong academic programs and hands-on work experiences (like internships and cooperative education programs) that many U.S. universities offer. Universities often provide career services to help students with job placement, from hosting job fairs to offering resume writing assistance.

Finding work may be more or less challenging depending on your field of study. Highly specialized fields or those with a high demand for workers may have more opportunities, while more general or saturated fields may require more effort to secure employment.

The visa process can be one of the more challenging aspects of finding work after studying in the U.S. While F-1 students are allowed to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months in their field of study under Optional Practical Training (OPT), further employment usually requires an H-1B visa. These visas are sponsored by employers and are in high demand, so this route can be competitive. In recent years, the limit for regular H-1B visas has been 65,000, with an additional 20,000 for those with a U.S. master's degree or higher.

If you're planning to study and work in the U.S., it's a good idea to acquaint yourself with the immigration laws and to consider seeking advice from immigration experts or legal counsel. Being proactive in your job search and starting early can also tip the scales in your favor.