For international students in the USA, OPT (Optional Practical Training) is an exciting post-graduation opportunity. It lets students gain work experience in their field, build skills, and grow a professional network. In this blog, we’ll explain what OPT is, how it works, and how Hospitality Academy can help you succeed.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a work authorization that allows international students with an F-1 visa to work in the U.S. in a job related to their major. The program is available to students who have completed at least one academic year of study in the U.S. and are looking to gain hands-on experience after graduation.
There are two types of OPT:
- Pre-Completion OPT: This allows students to work part-time (20 hours per week) while they are still completing their studies.
- Post-Completion OPT: After graduation, students can work full-time in a job related to their field of study. Post-completion OPT is the most common and is valid for up to 12 months (with an extension available for STEM students).
Why is OPT Important for Hospitality Students?
For hospitality students, OPT is a fantastic way to gain experience in the field. Whether you want to work in hotel management, event planning, culinary arts, or tourism, OPT gives you the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting.
The U.S. hospitality industry is one of the largest in the world, offering endless opportunities in top hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Through OPT, you can gain hands-on experience with leading hospitality businesses. This helps you build your resume, grow your professional network, and boost your chances of securing a full-time role after the program.
How Does OPT Benefit You?
- Real-World Experience
OPT allows you to gain practical experience in your field, which is crucial for your career development. For hospitality students, working at top hotels or restaurants can teach you skills that are highly valued in the industry, such as customer service, operations, and management.
- Networking Opportunities
While working in the U.S., you’ll have the chance to network with professionals, colleagues, and industry leaders. Building these connections can open doors to future job opportunities in hospitality, whether in the U.S. or internationally.
- Boost Your Resume
Employers look for candidates who have real-world experience. Participating in OPT gives you the chance to showcase your skills and stand out when applying for future roles. Hospitality businesses in the U.S. value applicants who have firsthand experience in the field.
- Transition to H-1B Visa
After completing your OPT, you may be eligible to transition to an H-1B visa, allowing you to continue working in the U.S. for a longer period. This is an excellent option if you want to pursue a career in the U.S. and gain more work experience.
How Can Hospitality Academy Help?
At Hospitality Academy, we understand how important it is to navigate the OPT process successfully. Our team offers personalized support to help you understand OPT eligibility, apply for work authorization, and find the right job opportunities. We also provide guidance on how to make the most of your OPT experience, whether you’re looking for an internship, a full-time job, or gaining exposure to top-tier hospitality businesses in the U.S. Apply here!
