To See With Eyes Unclouded: An Information Session About Majors and Careers for F-1 Visa Holders 

Written by Shakeel Jessa ’21

On Monday, September 23rd, 48 students (28 sophomores, 19 freshmen, and 1 senior) met with representatives from the Office of International Student Affairs (OISA), Gordon Career Center (GCC), and Student Affairs/Class Dean to discuss the post-grad employment advantages afforded to F-1 Visa Holders who pursue STEM majors as undergraduates.

The information session was designed for students in their second year who are required to declare a major by the end of Spring 2020. Discussion topics ranged from academic interests (related to choosing a major), to career prospects, to immigration-related benefits and regulations.

The OISA staff explained that Optional Practical Training, commonly referred to as “OPT,” is a period during which international graduates of U.S. colleges are permitted to work in the U.S. Although the typical period of employment is one-year, graduates who major in a STEM field may be allowed a longer period of employment. Beyond general guidance for navigating the complexities of Wesleyan Academics, GCC staff and the Dean for the Class of 2022 urged students to examine their motivations and interests.

The OISA staff acknowledged the pressures many international students feel from family and culture when considering certain major or career paths and emphasized that the information provided during the day’s information session was not intended to further pressure students into pursuing a field in which they have limited interest. Students were urged to explore their academic and career interests and develop strategic (and well informed) plans for study and employment.

In this information session, students took a massive step forward and began learning about the multitude of options that Wesleyan offers. The event was informative and well-attended with standing room only occupancy. Students are encouraged to explore the GCC, located across from the Usdan Student Center, and interacted with the GCC online through Handshake. Also, students should visit the new location of the Office of International Student Affairs (North College – lower level) and check-in with their Class Dean.  Students who are looking for more information can schedule individual advising appointments to discuss their academic, personal, and career interests.

Upcoming Optional Practical Training (OPT) Workshops:

These upcoming OPT workshop will cover: 1) OPT eligibility, 2) a step-by-step guide to complete the I-765 form, and 3) information about maintaining your F-1 visa status while on OPT.  F-1 visa holders in the classes of 2020 and 2021 are welcome to attend. The four sessions are exactly the same. You only need to attend one. Each session is limited to 20 students. First come, first served. Questions? Email oisa@wesleyan.edu

  • Wednesday, October 16, 5:00-6:00 p.m. @ Gordon Career Center
  • Thursday, November 7, 5:00-6:00 p.m. @ Gordon Career Center
  • Monday, November 18, 12:15-1:15 p.m. @ Gordon Career Center