Indian Graduate's Viral "Love You, America" Post Highlights Visa Struggles and Alternative Career Paths for International Students

On September 29, Joshi posted a heartfelt video on Instagram documenting her departure from the United States.

The concept of the 'American Dream' suggests that anyone can achieve success in the United States through dedication and hard work. However, for Ananya Joshi, an Indian national, this promise remained unfulfilled. She departed the country with tears after struggling to find permanent employment.

Speaking with NDTV, Joshi revealed that she was on an F-1 visa when she lost her job. She had secured employment during her Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, but later discovered the company would not sponsor her visa.

"I didn't immediately worry because I believed I had two additional years on my OPT extension, but for that to happen, the company needed to be e-verified," Joshi explained.

She disclosed that her employer had verbally assured her they were e-verified, which proved incorrect. This misrepresentation cost her the opportunity to apply for her STEM extension, eventually leading to her termination. Describing her job search challenges, she noted, "Even with just two months remaining, I participated in 20 to 30 interviews across the US, but no companies were willing to hire F-1 OPT candidates. They all required green card holders or citizens."

Joshi's Instagram video from September 29 captured her emotional departure from the US. Despite appearing resigned to her situation, she confessed that nothing could have prepared her for the emotional weight of leaving.

"This was definitely the most difficult step in my journey. Even though I seemed to have accepted my reality, I wasn't emotionally prepared for this day. America represented my first home as a financially independent adult, which will always hold special meaning for me. Though brief, I truly appreciate the life you provided me. AMERICA, I LOVE YOU," read her video caption.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ananya 🐬 | Relatable Adult Life (@ananyastruggles)

Addressing broader policy issues, Joshi highlighted the uncertainty created by the Trump administration's visa restrictions. "While sponsorship was challenging for biotechnology positions previously, people could still find employment. Currently, candidates cannot even secure contract positions without green cards or citizenship."

For students feeling disillusioned with the American system, Joshi offered perspective: "The world is actually much larger than we realize, with numerous opportunities available. We simply haven't been informed about them."

She encouraged prospective international students to expand their horizons beyond the US, suggesting countries like Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, and Singapore, where opportunities for biotechnology professionals continue to grow.

In a related development, US President Donald Trump recently increased H-1B visa application fees to $100,000, a substantial rise from the previous $2,000-$5,000 range, creating additional burdens for American companies relying on skilled international talent.