Hello everyone,

I am an international student at Oregon State University, and I will be graduating in Fall 2025 with a degree in Marine Studies. Throughout my time at OSU, I have gained both academic and hands-on experience in marine conservation, ocean governance, and environmental research. My coursework and fieldwork have allowed me to explore topics such as deep-sea mining regulations, coral reef conservation, and the ecological impacts of human activity on marine ecosystems. I have also been involved in lab and field research projects on the Oregon Coast, which strengthened my skills in data collection, analysis, and collaboration within a research team.

As graduation approaches, I am beginning to look into opportunities to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) so that I can gain professional experience in the United States. I am especially interested in positions related to marine conservation, environmental policy, ocean law, or applied research in marine science. However, I am also aware that navigating the job market as an international student can be challenging.

I would greatly appreciate hearing from others who have gone through this process. Have you had success securing a job in the U.S. after graduation, particularly through OPT? What strategies or resources did you find most helpful when applying for positions? Are there specific industries, organizations, or job boards that you would recommend focusing on for someone with a background in marine studies and environmental policy?

Thank you in advance for any advice or insights you are willing to share—I truly value learning from the experiences of others who have been in a similar position