OPT Spotlight

OPT Spotlight Series: Akash Chinthamanipeta (AlgaeBarn)

Carolyn Salter — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:32:48 +0000

OPT Spotlight Series: Akash Chinthamanipeta (AlgaeBarn) Carolyn Salter Thu, 03/12/2026 - 08:32

Akash is currently authorized for a STEM extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT) working as a Robotics Engineer at AlgaeBarn, LLC in Commerce City, CO. He had the following insight to share.

What is something you wish you knew before starting your OPT journey?
I wish I had known how time-sensitive the entire process is. Between coordinating with ISSS for the I-20 recommendation, getting the I-983 Training Plan signed by employer, and filing the I-765 with USCIS, there are many moving parts that need to align perfectly. I also wish I had known earlier that employer must be E-Verify enrolled for STEM OPT — not all companies are, so it’s important to confirm this before accepting a job offer. Starting the process at least 3-4 months before OPT expires gives enough buffer to handle any unexpected delays.

What was the application, interview, and hiring process like for you as a student on OPT?
The process was challenging but manageable with the right preparation. I work as a Robotics Engineer at AlgaeBarn, LLC in Commerce City, Colorado, where I design and implement industrial automation systems — work that directly applies my Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. My employer was very cooperative throughout the STEM OPT process, including enrolling in E-Verify and completing the I-983 Training Plan. My advice to fellow international students is to be upfront about your OPT status during interviews, clearly articulate how your role connects to your STEM degree, and choose an employer who genuinely values your skills and is willing to support your immigration journey.

What kind of projects/duties/research are you working on in your OPT position?
At AlgaeBarn, LLC, I work as a Robotics Engineer where I design and build industrial automation systems for aquaculture operations. My projects include developing automated phytoplankton filling machines, conveyor and jar sorting systems, and water management infrastructure for algae cultivation tanks. I work extensively with ESP32 microcontrollers, ESPHome, Home Assistant, Modbus RTU communication, Keyence flow meters, and pneumatic valve control systems. I also develop IoT-based monitoring and control solutions that integrate industrial sensors with cloud-based dashboards, applying embedded systems and control theory concepts directly from my graduate studies.

How has OPT allowed you to gain practical training in your major field of study and continue your learning beyond your academic degree program?
OPT has been transformative in bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world engineering. My Master’s degree gave me a strong foundation in mechanical systems, robotics, and control theory, but OPT has allowed me to apply those concepts at an industrial scale. I have independently designed and deployed automation systems that have measurably improved operational efficiency at my company. Every project pushes me to learn new skills — from industrial networking protocols to electromechanical system design — accelerating my growth far beyond what any classroom setting could provide.

What concerns, if any, do you have as a student on OPT?
My primary concern is the uncertainty around long-term work authorization. While STEM OPT provides a 24-month extension, the H-1B lottery system is highly competitive and luck-dependent, which creates significant anxiety about future stability despite having strong qualifications and a supportive employer. Additionally, USCIS processing times can be unpredictable, which adds stress around maintaining continuous work authorization. I would encourage policymakers to create more predictable pathways for STEM graduates who are actively contributing to the U.S. workforce.

What is something that you would like others to know about your experience on OPT?
OPT is not just a visa status — it is a real opportunity to prove your value as an engineer in a professional environment. I have been able to independently lead automation projects that have made a tangible impact on my company’s operations. The experience has been incredibly rewarding both technically and professionally. Don’t underestimate yourself because of your visa status — the right employer will see your skills first.

What advice would you give to a student applying for OPT?
Start early, stay organized, and maintain close communication with ISSS throughout the process. Make sure your job offer is directly related to your degree before accepting it — this is a legal requirement, not just a formality. Build a strong relationship with your employer and educate them about OPT requirements. Most importantly, document everything and keep copies of all your immigration documents in one place.

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OPT Spotlight Series: Pratik Tolani (Calico Energy)

Anonymous — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 22:32:31 +0000

OPT Spotlight Series: Pratik Tolani (Calico Energy) Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 04/15/2021 - 16:32

Pratik Tolani is a �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder graduate who is currently gaining experience while on Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). ISSS reached out to Pratik to ask about the type of training he is doing and how post-completion OPT has helped him gain practical training in his major field of study (Mechanical Engineering).  ISSS is excited to spotlight Pratik’s experience and advice for other F-1 students who might be planning to apply for Post-Completion OPT and STEM OPT. 

Pratik is working as a Technical Analyst at Calico Energy which creates successful energy management programs and effective IT solutions for utilities and their partners. When asked about the type of projects Pratik is working on, he said, “I am working closely with team members who manage multiple utility programs like learning the details of the Demand Response program integrations and interactions with the grid. Additionally, I am working with the team on reporting and visualizations using RStudio (a data analysis tool) to analyze and improve program functionality and outcomes. My duties directly utilize the skills and knowledge I acquired from my coursework and degree in renewable energy.”

Before applying for OPT, Pratik wishes he knew about the power of networking. Pratik says that he gained a lot from informational Interviews, networking on LinkedIn, conferences, and guidance from professionals in his field as opposed to just online applications as they are screened by applicant tracking systems. Pratik encourages students to instead aim for the unadvertised hidden jobs.

When seeking OPT authorization and applying for his current position, Pratik stated, “It was definitely smoother than I expected. I applied for positions online and emailed professionals from the company. I also set up an informational interview call with the company's CEO to get the gist of the company (always have thoughtful and unique questions ready for any interview). After the call with the CEO, I had interviews with 2-3 employees from the company to check for cultural/skill fit that eventually led to an offer letter.” ISSS wants to remind students that the Career Services Office at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder is a valuable connection for students in their career pursuits.  

Pratik’s advice to a student applying for OPT is, “Research your industry as there are certain websites that are more effective for getting a job and focus on those. I will not deny the difficulty we face as international students, but it's all worth it in the end.” ISSS is here to help support each of our F-1 students who wish to pursue OPT. Students can and should take advantage of ISSS resources, workshops, and advising opportunities to understand the application process, reporting requirements, and status maintenance requirements associated with an OPT authorization.  

Pratik wants others who are applying for OPT to, “Strive for progress not perfection. Always challenge yourself for you will be surprised by what you can achieve through sheer determination and hard work.” Furthermore, Pratik reminds students that OPT is a very good chance to gain practical experience through interaction with industry leaders and experts in your field. Make the most of it!

F-1 students are eligible to apply for post-completion OPT after they have completed all degree requirements or after completion of all coursework (excluding thesis or dissertation credits). The first day that F-1 students can apply for OPT is 90 days before the last day of enrollment in the final semester. The last day F-1 students can apply is 60 days after the last day of enrollment.

ISSS is proud of our students who are engaging in practical training. If you’d like to be featured in our OPT Spotlight Series in the future, please fill out this survey.

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OPT Spotlight Series: Noemi Collado (Air Liquide)

Anonymous — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 11:04:41 +0000

OPT Spotlight Series: Noemi Collado (Air Liquide) Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 03/24/2021 - 05:04

Noemi Collado is a �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder graduate who is currently gaining practical training while on STEM OPT. ISSS reached out to Noemi to ask about the type of training she is doing and how Post-Completion OPT has helped her gain practical training in her major field of study (Chemical Engineering).  ISSS is excited to spotlight Noemi’s experience and advice for other F-1 students who might be planning to apply for Post-Completion OPT and STEM OPT. 

Noemi is working as a Research Associate in Process Engineering at American Air Liquide Inc. When asked about the type of projects Noemi is working on, she said, “I work on different research projects related to Process Engineering both for external requests and for the technology development of the company. Since I'm working on research, this OPT experience allows me to keep learning in my field every day.”

ISSS supports students before their OPT journey by providing step by step instructions for seeking OPT authorization, reviewing their application materials, and issuing the I-20 that recommends OPT. Before applying for OPT, Noemi wishes she knew more about the deadlines and conditions needed to apply (e.g. last research date, graduation date, semester enrollment, etc.).

When seeking OPT authorization and applying for her current position, Noemi stated, “The application, interview, and hiring process for me as an OPT student was very easy because my manager and the company were both very familiar with the OPT process.” ISSS wants to remind students that the Career Services Office at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder is a valuable connection for students in their career pursuits.  

Noemi’s advice to a student applying for OPT is, “Get a lot of information, make sure you understand all the deadlines and conditions, and don't be afraid to ask for help! Also, I would recommend that you don’t listen to friend’s/colleague’s advice related to the OPT application and deadlines since each situation is different and sometimes it can lead to confusion.” ISSS is here to help support each of our F-1 students who wish to pursue OPT. Students can and should take advantage of ISSS resources, workshops, and advising opportunities to understand the application process, reporting requirements, and status maintenance requirements associated with an OPT authorization.  

Noemi wants others who are applying for OPT to know, “My OPT experience wasn't conventional. I had many complications but I'm glad that ISSS helped me a lot. In my case, a change/mistake in my enrollment made my deadline to apply for OPT move way sooner, which caused me to apply literally less than a week before the deadline to apply for OPT. Once my OPT was accepted I was very lucky, because I got my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in less than a month - which from what I've heard is not normal either.”

As students transition from F-1 status based on enrollment to F-1 status based on practical training (OPT and STEM OPT), their concerns often shift as well. ISSS asked Noemi what concerns she has as a student on OPT and she stated, “I'm lucky to be at a company that helps me a lot and gives me options when my OPT expires, which would be my biggest concern. When you go to career fairs, don't be afraid to ask the company about H1B sponsorship and what options you have after your OPT ends. I’ve seen that many people are shy to ask that, but it’s very important to address and discuss with the company.” Many international students in F-1 status have questions about what comes next after their OPT authorization comes to an end. Unfortunately, ISSS advisors are not immigration attorneys so we are limited in the advice we can give to help guide students through this transition. Most often, ISSS will direct you to work with your employer or an immigration attorney to discuss your options.

ISSS is proud of our students who are engaging in practical training. If you’d like to be featured in our OPT Spotlight Series in the future, please fill out this survey.

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OPT Spotlight Series: Rayshan Visvanathan (Intel Corporation)

Anonymous — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 15:29:17 +0000

OPT Spotlight Series: Rayshan Visvanathan (Intel Corporation) Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 02/22/2021 - 08:29

Rayshan Visvanathan is a �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder graduate who is currently gaining practical training while on STEM OPT. ISSS reached out to Rayshan to ask about the type of training he is doing and how Post-Completion OPT has helped him gain practical training in his major field of study (Materials Science & Engineering). ISSS is excited to spotlight Rayshan’s experience and advice for other F-1 students who might be planning to apply for Post-Completion OPT and STEM OPT.

Rayshan is currently working as a Process Engineer in the Lithography group at Intel Corporation. When seeking OPT authorization and applying for his position, Rayshan stated, “The application, interview, and hiring process was great for me. Intel representatives visited �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder and I had the opportunity to share my resume with them. We had a phone interview and then an on-site interview before I was hired. It was a wonderful opportunity. As a Process Engineer at Intel, I use novel patterning techniques and the latest generation in patterning equipment to manufacture computing technology to connect and enrich the lives of every person on earth.” ISSS wants to remind students that the Career Services Office at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder is a valuable connection for students in their career pursuits.

Rayshan wants others who are applying for OPT to know that it is a wonderful opportunity that has allowed him to engage with industry leaders, experts, and has allowed him to improve his professional skills. When asked what advice Rayshan would give to a student applying for OPT, he said, “OPT is a great time to explore a career in the STEM industry. Every STEM major must make good use of their OPT time to learn and develop their career path.”

ISSS supports students before their OPT journey by providing step by step instructions for seeking OPT authorization, reviewing their application materials, and issuing the I-20 that recommends OPT. Rayshan felt that ISSS was pretty good at letting him know many of the details of OPT. During the OPT authorization, students can and should take advantage of ISSS resources, workshops, and advising opportunities to understand reporting and status maintenance requirements associated with an OPT authorization.

ISSS is proud of our students who are engaging in practical training. If you’d like to be featured in our OPT Spotlight Series in the future, please fill out this survey.

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