Every morning, I scroll through news feeds only to be inundated with headlines about H1-B visa reforms, deportations and student visa revocations. I’ve noticed a concerning trend: while news channels often feature interviews with students who’ve had their visas revoked, they rarely seek out the perspectives of law-abiding international students like myself. It’s as if the media assumes we’re unaffected or unconcerned about the implications of these policies.

University Election Viewing Party

During the last presidential election election, I arrived in the United States and experienced the country’s democratic process firsthand. Our university organized an election night where students gathered to watch the results on a big screen, participate in Q&A sessions and engage in discussions. The discipline and respect displayed by students from both parties created a safe and inclusive environment. I was stunned. I witnessed the functionality of U.S. democracy and the peaceful coexistence of differing political views.

However, I noticed a stark contrast between the calm atmosphere on campus and the panic that gripped many students who were worried about the election outcome. Back home, I had heard negative impressions about the Trump administration, which led my father to worry about my visa status. I reassured him that, as a law-abiding international student, I had nothing to fear. This experience made me realize the importance of speaking out against media sensationalism and negative propaganda that distorts public perception.

Deportation and Visa Revoking (Myth Vs. Reality)

On July 27,  USA Today reported, “ICE deported teenagers and children in immigration raids. Here are their stories.” Another headline from April 18 read, “Anxiety at U.S. colleges as foreign students are detained and visas revoked.” But the problem was, as an international student, I did not feel anxiety as news outlets claimed I did. I am on Optional Practice Training (OPT), which is one year, an off-campus work permission given to each international student, and working in an internship. I started working as an intern, updated my student account, and I don’t see any threat to my living here. I am confident my Visa will never be revoked unless I violate the rules.

So far, 6,000 student visas have been revoked, but each of those students had serious charges for breaking laws, including activities like burglary. 

In July 2025, the U.S. Embassy in India issued a clear warning to all visa holders and applicants: “If you are arrested for assault, domestic violence, or other crimes while in the United States, your U.S. visa may be revoked, and you may be ineligible for future U.S. visas. A visa is a privilege, not a right – one that can be revoked if you break the law.”

This statement followed a viral video that allegedly shows an Indian woman being arrested by U.S. police after she reportedly attempted to shoplift from a store. The question is, if shoplifting is a crime that would result in punishment for a U.S. citizen, why should an international student be exempt from such punishment?

Visa Appointment Fraud Bust : U.S. Cancels 2,000 Indian Appointments Made by “Bots”

The U.S. Embassy in India has canceled approximately 2,000 visa appointments that it said violated scheduling policies and were made by “bots”. The associated accounts have had their scheduling privileges suspended immediately. The Embassy stated that its consular team in India uncovered fraudulent activities and identified the “bad actors” responsible for these appointments. It emphasized that it has zero tolerance for fraud and will continue to strengthen its anti-fraud measures. So, if visa fraud is a reality that the U.S. is trying to stop, by filtering the candidates before they arrive in the U.S., it is also helping deserving candidates get their slots.

Visa Denials: Surprising and Stupid News

A viral news article with the headline “U.S. Visa denial” isn’t particularly surprising, as visa refusals are common and can occur for various reasons such as security concerns, lack of clear travel plans, insufficient funds, suspicious or incomplete documentation, etc. Even students who are not well-prepared for the interview may face refusal. In 2023, my visa was approved, but I knew to be prepared for either outcome. 

The embassy shared helpful tips on Aug 22, 2025, stating, “It’s #VisaFriday… understanding what [a refusal notice] means is the first step.”

The embassy’s tips include:

•       Be clear and consistent about your travel purpose and back it up with documents.
•       Show strong ties to your home country, such as employment, family, or financial commitments.
•       Prepare documents in advance to prevent a 221(g) hold for missing paperwork.

The embassy also clarified the difference between a 221(g) refusal, which may only delay the process, and a 214(b) refusal, which requires a fresh start.

Media Reports and Reality 

 A viral video showed an Indian student being restrained by U.S. authorities at Newark Airport in New Jersey, sparking widespread attention and controversy. However, the incident’s context is crucial: the individual had entered the United States illegally without a valid visa, as confirmed by official sources and the Consulate General of India in New York. The Consulate General’s investigation into the viral footage revealed that the person was being deported to India under a U.S. court order. The incident highlights the importance of understanding the facts behind a story, rather than relying on incomplete or sensationalized reports.

U.S. Asked to Share Social Media Accounts of Applicants

The U.S. requirement for visa applicants to share their social media accounts is not a novel development. In fact, this policy was first introduced during the 2016 Trump administration. Given the enhanced vetting process, it is logical to expect applicants to disclose their online presence. When I applied for a visa in 2023, during the Biden administration, I also had to share my social media links. Even though it wasn’t explicitly instructed, I kept my social media accounts public so that the officers from the embassy could review my profile and assess my eligibility for a U.S. visa. 

It’s worth noting that the Trump administration initially proposed this rule in March 2018, aiming to strengthen identity verification and national security screening processes. The policy requires applicants to provide details about their social media presence, including usernames and handles, for the past five years. This measure is part of broader efforts to enhance vetting and protect national security.

The question arises: should individuals who harbor ideological disdain for the U.S. be granted entry into the country? This is a complex issue, and the U.S. government’s stance is clear: national security is a top priority when adjudicating visa applications. The enhanced vetting process, including social media screening, aims to identify potential security risks and ensure that applicants do not pose a threat to the country.

Traveling Outside U.S. Becomes a Terror

Before my 2025 Spring vacation, the Office of Student International Services (OISS) at our school issued a travel advisory. The OISS office’s email to international students before summer vacation was a gentle reminder to stay prepared.

However, one line stood out: “remain flexible with your travel plans, as conditions and regulations may change unexpectedly.” It seemed like a veiled warning, sparking unnecessary fear. As it turned out, reentry into the U.S. was a breeze. On my return, the officer asked a single question: “Do you have any food in your bag?” A simple “yes” sufficed, and with a passport seal, I was good to go. It was a refreshing contrast to the anticipated interrogation. As I reflect on it, I realize that when you’ve done nothing wrong, there’s no reason to fear the authorities. The experience was a pleasant surprise, and I’m glad I got to have a great day, just as the officer wished.

“Antisemitism” on Campus 

Now, let’s talk about the Palestinian protest ! As a journalism student in the U.S., I believe in the importance of freedom of expression and peaceful protest. However, I also think it’s crucial to consider the context and potential impact of such actions, especially as international students who have been given the opportunity to study and work in a foreign country. While some may support pro-Palestinian protests, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the potential disruptions to campus life and the importance of respecting the laws and regulations of the host country.

My Takeaways

As an international student in the U.S., I’ve achieved my goals and more. My journey began with a clear objective: to pursue higher education in journalism and gain valuable experience. After months of preparation, including English tests and visa interview practices, I successfully obtained my visa and started my academic journey at William Paterson University.

Studying in the communications department was a rewarding experience, despite being the only Indian international student in my program. My teachers and classmates were supportive, helping me adapt to the digital culture and build confidence through presentations and public speaking. Their positive attitude and encouragement motivated me to excel.

I’m proud to have been appointed Vice President of the journalism club and honored to have received the Maltese award for my dedication to journalism. I was interviewed twice by the U.S.’s oldest journalists’ body Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) International and featured on campus as a future journalist. Instead of facing discrimination, I have been consistently inspired and rewarded. These accomplishments have not only enriched my academic experience but also equipped me with the skills and confidence to pursue my career goals. My time in the U.S. has been transformative, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow both personally and professionally.

Acknowledgment: The opinions expressed are those of the individual author.