Work and study engineering. is it possible?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of working while studying engineering in the U.S., particularly for international students from developing countries. It explores concerns about balancing work and academic responsibilities, as well as the legal implications of student visas.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the ability to work and study simultaneously without compromising academic performance.
  • Another participant notes that working while studying is generally not permitted on student visas in the U.S.
  • A different participant shares personal experience of successfully working while studying engineering in Australia, suggesting that time management is key, though they acknowledge the situation may differ in the U.S.
  • Another contributor recounts their experience of working full-time while attending school part-time to earn an Electrical Engineering degree, indicating that it took longer but was ultimately beneficial.
  • A participant raises concerns about U.S. immigration laws and suggests consulting with a U.S. consulate for accurate information regarding work and study permissions.
  • One participant offers advice on handling U.S. visa interviews, suggesting that applicants should focus on studying and demonstrate financial preparedness to avoid complications.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the possibility of working while studying engineering in the U.S. Some believe it is feasible with proper time management, while others highlight legal restrictions that may complicate this balance. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific conditions under which this may be possible.

Contextual Notes

There are uncertainties regarding the current state of U.S. immigration laws and their impact on the ability to work while studying. Participants acknowledge that experiences may vary significantly based on individual circumstances and changes in regulations over time.

pcsx22
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I'm about to finish my high school and since I'm really interested in stuffs like mathematics, physics and computing I want get into electronics or computer engineering.

I live in a third world country and I really want to go to U.S to have a engineering degree so if I go there I'll have to do a side job to manage my living and I fear that if do a job I won't be able to concentrate on my studies. so is it possible for me to work and study engineering without flunking?
 
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What you describe is not usually possible on student visas in the US.
 
I, and most of my friends, have worked while studying engineering and done quite well. I have never lived nor worked in the US so I'm not sure how many hours you will need to work to live sustainably, but my opinion is that it is very possible if you manage your time well. For reference, I live in Australia, so the situation may be very different for the US, I'm not sure.
 
Legalities of immigration aside, you ask if it is possible to work and get a degree. The answer is yes, I worked full time and went to school part time to earn my Electrical Engineering degree. It took nearly twice as long, but I think I am better off for it. I have a friend and colleague from Jamaica who also managed to do this. However, that was close to 30 years ago.

Given the ridiculous state of US immigration law (detested by nearly everyone) I will not venture any opinions as to whether what you suggest is still possible. I suggest you inquire with the nearest US consulate for guidance.
 
pcsx22 said:
I'm about to finish my high school and since I'm really interested in stuffs like mathematics, physics and computing I want get into electronics or computer engineering.

I live in a third world country and I really want to go to U.S to have a engineering degree so if I go there I'll have to do a side job to manage my living and I fear that if do a job I won't be able to concentrate on my studies. so is it possible for me to work and study engineering without flunking?
Maybe the US Consulate interviewers will fail you at once if you answer Yes to their question as of whether you will study and work at the same time. If you move to the US to study, then just say study, and show them the documents that you have a saving account with enough money for at least 1 year of study. If you ask for a work visa, you might need to ask your manager or his representative to walk with you directly into your nearest Consulate and let your boss deal with them; by this way you DEFINITELY got the visa.
If you are granted a scholarship by some organization in the US, the organization does have enough files about you and itself to take you off. No worries!
This is just a particular case in my area at least when asking for a US visa.
 

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