2 answers
hargun
Student
Miami, Florida
11
Questions
Asked
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Can you work a different job during OPT than what you studied for in College?
OPT Is for international students and we were told it must be related to your area of study but what if I volunteer in my area of study and do another job, can that work out?
#internationalstudent
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2 answers
Francisco Torres Diaz
Industrial Engineer, MSE, MBA
67
Answers
Columbus, Indiana
Updated
Francisco’s Answer
Hi Hargun!
Another good question. Your OPT can be used in different ways, but your chances of it getting approved definitely improves when the job you applying to relates to your area of study. I think is also way better for you to work in your field study and volunteer on something different than the other way around. Having said that there's possible flexibility, like your OPT can also allow you to work 2 part-time jobs (20 hrs each per week) if that's something you'd be interested in. I would recommend you get advice for your university's international students office who are experts in this area.
Good luck!
Another good question. Your OPT can be used in different ways, but your chances of it getting approved definitely improves when the job you applying to relates to your area of study. I think is also way better for you to work in your field study and volunteer on something different than the other way around. Having said that there's possible flexibility, like your OPT can also allow you to work 2 part-time jobs (20 hrs each per week) if that's something you'd be interested in. I would recommend you get advice for your university's international students office who are experts in this area.
Good luck!
Tatiana Richardson
Executive Assistant
1
Answer
San Francisco, California
Updated
Tatiana’s Answer
Hi Hargun!
I would recommend to do your OPT in a field related to your area of study. Keep in mind this will be the jump start to your professional career. it will look good on your resume to have a degree and then some experience in your field of study.
The best approach is to schedule time with an International Student Advisor at your college. I was an International Student myself and I would meet with my advisor on a quarterly basis to make sure I was on track to achieve my goals. There is also a CPT option. You will be able to find a part time job or internship while still studying. I personally found this to be extremely helpful because I was able to implement my learning in the workspace. Also, once I graduated my employer converted me into a full time employee so I was able to immediately start working (OPT) and didn't need to spend time interviewing or worrying about not finding a job within.
Hope this is helpful and good luck in your future career!
I would recommend to do your OPT in a field related to your area of study. Keep in mind this will be the jump start to your professional career. it will look good on your resume to have a degree and then some experience in your field of study.
The best approach is to schedule time with an International Student Advisor at your college. I was an International Student myself and I would meet with my advisor on a quarterly basis to make sure I was on track to achieve my goals. There is also a CPT option. You will be able to find a part time job or internship while still studying. I personally found this to be extremely helpful because I was able to implement my learning in the workspace. Also, once I graduated my employer converted me into a full time employee so I was able to immediately start working (OPT) and didn't need to spend time interviewing or worrying about not finding a job within.
Hope this is helpful and good luck in your future career!