&gt; But what do I say to the company about my visa status?<p>Start reaching out to and networking with senior executives from your country of origin. Linkedin advanced search is an excellent resource for this.  Also, Google search for Indian entrepreneurs&gt; <a href="https:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.theguardian.com&#x2F;technology&#x2F;2014&#x2F;apr&#x2F;11&#x2F;powerful-indians-silicon-valley" rel="nofollow">https:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.theguardian.com&#x2F;technology&#x2F;2014&#x2F;apr&#x2F;11&#x2F;powerful-...</a><p>It&#x27;s enough to say at this juncture you believe it&#x27;s best to suspend your academic track and start working professionally.  Those individuals will likely be more understanding and sympathetic to your situation.  And more inclined to deal H1-B sponsorship requirements.