The United States has long been a beacon for higher education, attracting students from all corners of the globe and we cannot be least grateful to the United States government for this great opportunity. These international students bring diverse perspectives, enrich the academic environment, and contribute significantly to the economy. Yet, despite their invaluable contributions, international students often face barriers that hinder their ability to fully thrive in the U.S. To ensure that these talented individuals can continue to succeed, the U.S. government should consider implementing three key changes which will be of great help.
One of the most pressing issues for international students is the restriction on off-campus work. While the primary purpose of coming to the U.S. is to study, the reality is that many students need to work to support themselves. On-campus jobs are often scarce and do not always provide enough income to cover living expenses. Allowing international students to work off-campus would not only help them financially but also offer valuable real-world experience in their field of study.
Moreover, the benefits extend beyond the students themselves. By enabling off-campus work, the U.S. would see increased tax revenue and economic activity. International students are known for being diligent and dedicated, traits that would make them valuable contributors to the workforce. This change would also help integrate international students more fully into American society, enriching both their experience and the communities in which they live.
Also, some students never get the chance to even work which often means they never get to file taxes. For some, this results in spending four years in the U.S. without ever having to navigate the tax system. Consequently, when they eventually need to file taxes, whether due to post-graduation employment or other circumstances, they find themselves at a significant disadvantage. The lack of practical experience with the U.S. tax system leaves them unprepared and adds an extra layer of stress to an already challenging transition. This gap highlights the importance of allowing work opportunities during their studies, not just for financial support but also for gaining essential life skills that are crucial for living and working in the U.S.
Another significant challenge for international students is the lack of access to financial aid. Many students come to the U.S. with a clear plan to fund their education, but unforeseen circumstances can quickly derail those plans. Accidents, family emergencies, or currency fluctuations can leave students in a precarious financial situation. Unfortunately, most U.S. loans require a cosigner, which many international students do not have.
Providing access to loans without a cosigner would offer a safety net for these students, ensuring that they can complete their education even in the face of unexpected challenges. This change would not only benefit the students but also the U.S. economy. By supporting international students in completing their degrees, the U.S. would ensure a steady stream of highly educated individuals who can contribute to the workforce, driving innovation and economic growth.
Finally, the U.S. should consider extending the time frame for international students to find jobs after graduation beyond the current three-month limit under OPT. This short window can be incredibly stressful and limiting, as it doesn’t give students enough time to explore different job opportunities, especially if they’re still young and exploring different career paths. While we understand that certain government positions require U.S. citizenship, international students should be given the flexibility to explore a variety of fields, not just those directly related to their degree. This would allow them to fully utilize the skills and knowledge they’ve gained during their studies in the U.S., ultimately benefiting the country by contributing to diverse industries. By extending this period and allowing more freedom in job selection, the U.S. can better support international students in finding meaningful employment that aligns with their evolving career goals.
Furthermore, this would provide a sense of purpose and belonging for international students, who often feel a deep connection to the U.S. after spending several years here. By creating opportunities for them to give back to the country that educated them, the U.S. would foster a more inclusive and dynamic society.
International students are an asset to the United States, contributing to the academic, cultural, and economic fabric of the nation. By allowing them to work off-campus, providing access to loans without a cosigner, and creating pathways for them to serve the government, the U.S. can ensure that these talented individuals continue to thrive. These changes would not only benefit the students but also the country, driving economic growth, innovation, and cultural exchange.
International students often pay significant amounts of money to pursue their education in the United States, facing numerous financial and logistical challenges along the way. For instance, I personally had to apply for a visa five times, spending over $5,000 just to secure the opportunity to study in the U.S. The process can be grueling and expensive, yet we persevere because we value the education and experience that studying in America offers. However, these financial burdens and the difficulty in obtaining visas highlight the need for more support and resources for international students who contribute so much to the academic and cultural landscape of the United States.
As an international student from Ghana studying Pre-Law at the University of Charleston in West Virginia, I have seen firsthand the challenges that international students face. I have sent countless emails to the Office of the President of the United States, advocating for these changes. It is uncommon to hear of international students committing crimes; we are among the most law-abiding and respectful groups of non-immigrants. It’s time to give us a chance to contribute more fully to the country we have come to love and respect.
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