The idea of the “American Dream” has long drawn people worldwide, but for many, living it proves far more difficult than imagined. Recently, an Indian woman’s tearful farewell to the United States struck an emotional chord online, highlighting the challenges faced by international students and professionals in pursuit of long-term stability.

After completing her master’s degree in Biotechnology at Northwestern University in 2024, Ananya Joshi began her career under the F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme at a biotech start-up. However, a company-wide downsizing led to her layoff , and as her OPT period neared its end, the pressure to secure new employment intensified.

“By Far the Hardest Step in This Journey”

Despite months of applications, interviews, and networking, Jo

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