Should You Stay or Leave After Graduating? (Copy)
Should you stay in the United States after graduating?
As an international student, this question is likely on your mind in some capacity throughout your entire time in school.
It can be a tough decision to make, one with many variables and factors for consideration.
The truth is, nobody except you can answer this question. But, if you’re struggling with this decision, I want to offer a few ideas for your consideration.
1. Get Clear on What You Want
You’ve likely heard many opinions on this topic. Some of these opinions may be coming from family members, friends, fellow students, and other sources you trust and respect.
And, while these opinions can help you in making a final decision, you must first take the opportunity to get clear on what you really want.
Tap into your own experience, feelings, and the time you’ve spent in the United States.
Can you envision yourself building a life here? Does it make you happy and excited thinking about a future in the United States? Or, have you been longing to visit home during your stay and anxious to return?
The questions above are simply examples. The point here is to truly assess what you want for your future. You can’t make a clear decision without first understanding what you want!
2. Speak With Your Parents
This may seem like a contradictory step from the last point, but it’s not!
Create an open line of communication with your parents. Let them know what’s on your mind after getting clear on what you want, and ask them for their thoughts and feelings.
This will help you get a 360-degree, full picture with their thoughts in your consideration.
They’ll also appreciate being a part of the conversation!
3. Get Clear on Your Logistics
It’s imperative that you also take the time to get clear on your finances, potential living arrangement, job opportunities, work visa sponsorship, and other real-world logistics that are critical to making the right decision.
What you want, and what your family thinks is best for you is important, but it’s just as key to understand what’s truly doable for you right now.
If your family has provided you with financial support during your schooling, will they be willing to continue doing so while you find employment in the United States? Is the city in which you’re currently receiving an education the same place that’s realistic for you to find a more permanent place of your own?
Again, these are examples of types of questions you should be asking to help you build understanding around this important point.
4. Know That No Decision is Final
Finally, I also want you to be easy on yourself.
It may feel like this decision comes with a certain degree of “gravity,” and it’s most certainly an important choice you’re making.
But, I also want to remind you that any decision you make doesn’t have to be final. You may choose to go home, and reassess your choice after a year, and then make your way back to the United States.
Alternatively, you may choose to stay here, and decide after a few years that this isn’t what you truly want. And, that’s fine too!
You have choices, both now and in the future. So, even if you’re nervous about making the “wrong” decision, you can also change your mind down the road.
These four steps will help you build clarity as well as confidence around your decision-making.
I’d love to hear from you, what’s another important point for consideration before making this decision? Feel free to join our Facebook group for international students and share your thoughts.
About The Author
Fourteen years ago I came to the U.S. from Taiwan and studied in a field that rarely accepted “fresh off the boat” international students from non-English speaking countries. I’m Dr. Vivi Hua, Psy.D. and I help international students learn how to navigate the U.S. educational system and feel comfortable with the American culture so they can succeed academically and socially in their lives and careers!