The death of the American dream?

For decades, the United States symbolised opportunity, innovation, and upward mobility. Students from Bangladesh and around the world aspired to study there, invest in their futures, and contribute to the global economy. However, recent developments suggest that this dream is becoming increasingly elusive. The US is no longer the welcoming land it once was for international students.

Deportations over minor infractions: In a troubling trend, international students are facing deportation over minor legal issues. Reports indicate that nearly 40 students have had their visas abruptly revoked due to minor infractions, such as traffic violations. This aggressive enforcement has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the international student community.

Social media under scrutiny: The US Department of Homeland Security has intensified its monitoring of international students' social media activities. Applicants may face increased scrutiny if their online presence is deemed inconsistent with their visa status or suggests unlawful intentions. This heightened surveillance extends to students' activities during visits to their home countries, raising concerns about privacy and freedom of expression.

Activism and academic freedom at risk:International students engaged in activism, particularly those expressing pro-Palestinian views, have become targets for visa revocations. The Trump administration has revoked over 1,500 student visas, often without clear explanations, creating panic on campuses according to multiple reports. This crackdown undermines academic freedom and discourages students from participating in campus discourse.

Uncertainty in immigration pathways: The US immigration system is experiencing significant upheaval. Approved green card petitions can now be revoked at the discretion of immigration authorities, with limited avenues for appeal. Additionally, the H-1B visa programme, a common pathway for international graduates to work in the US, is undergoing reforms aimed at reducing fraud but also adding layers of complexity. These changes contribute to the growing uncertainty faced by international students.

Shifting preferences among international students:The combination of stringent immigration policies and an unwelcoming environment is prompting many international students reconsider studying in the US. According to an AP news article, in the 2023-2024 academic year, international students contributed US$ 43.8 billion to the US economy and supported over 378,000 jobs. However, the current climate is leading students to explore alternative destinations for higher education.

Employers' reluctance to hire international graduates: US employers are increasingly hesitant to hire international graduates due to the complexities of visa sponsorship and the potential for policy changes. Accroding to Yahoo Finance news, only 16 per cent of US employers had definite plans to hire internationally in 2024. This reluctance further diminishes the prospects for international students seeking employment after graduation.

Navigating the new landscape: Given the rising uncertainties surrounding US immigration and student visa policies, Bangladeshi students must approach their educational journey with a more strategic, informed mindset. First and foremost, students should seriously consider alternative destinations such as the UK, Germany, European countries like the Netherlands, or Australia-countries that currently offer more stable, transparent immigration policies and are actively welcoming international students. The dream of studying in the US isn't dead, but it must be pursued with eyes wide open. Maintaining a clean and professional online presence is now essential. What you post even years before applying can be scrutinised by US immigration officers. Political content, jokes taken out of context, or any post that seems inconsistent with your declared intentions can raise red flags.

In this rapidly changing landscape, relying solely on university websites or outdated YouTube vlogs isn't enough. Students should actively engage with their target university's admissions offices, international student advisors, and alumni to get the most current information. Speaking with student counsellors and credible visa consultants will also help navigate the intricacies of the visa process and flag any potential risks early on. It's equally important to reach out to recent applicants both those accepted and rejected, to learn from their real-world experiences.

Moreover, having a contingency plan is vital. Ask yourself: if you're unable to complete your degree in the US, or if you're forced to return to Bangladesh suddenly, do you have a fallback strategy? Choosing degree programmes that are respected globally can help you remain competitive even outside the US Finally, aiming for top-tier universities and applying for competitive scholarships not only improves your visa chances but also signals your seriousness and capability. A strong academic profile backed by prestigious scholarships makes it easier to justify your intentions to US visa officers, especially in today's skeptical climate.

A call for reflection: The current trajectory not only affects international students but also poses risks to the US economy and its position as a global leader in education and innovation. As the US tightens its borders, it risks losing the diverse talent that has long contributed to its success. For Bangladeshi students, it's imperative to weigh the risks and benefits carefully and consider whether the American dream still aligns with their aspirations.

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