I have completed USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 examinations and I am looking forward to applying for residency in the USA. Now I have got an externship opportunity. This rotation, according to the institute, is a voluntary experience that does not account for any medical education, graduate medical education, continuing medical education, or any training leading to licensure or board certification. During this given opportunity, I may receive a letter of recognition or a certificate of completion to fulfill an observational or shadowing requirement as needed. This rotation will allow externs to partake in taking patient history, physical, and procedures under direct supervision. There will be no direct patient care responsibilities as well as actual clinical practice.
I need to get US clinical experience and recommendations to apply for the residency.
My husband emailed the Office of International Services of his university and in the reply email, they mentioned the following points-
In the past, the federal government has defined employment as “any type of work performed for services provided in exchange for money, tuition, fees, books, supplies, room, food or any other benefit.” Many immigration lawyers and other international services offices have pointed to the “any other benefit” phrase as a prohibitive phrase. If a student were to receive the benefit of gaining experience in their field of study, the government could interpret this as “unauthorized employment”. This would be a serious violation of their immigration status.
Also according to the DSO of the University of Pittsburgh, a researcher/ lab technician even if does an unpaid job would not be considered a volunteer job.
Now my query is can I apply to the externships/ observership being on an F-2 visa and as this externship will benefit me getting recommendation and experience, would this be considered a violation of the law?
I contacted Mr. Khanna in January this year regarding the filing of my Green-Card. I found him very polite, sincere and prompt person. Ms. Diane Lombardo is handling my case. She is very prompt; beyond my imagination. She hardly takes time for her response. Although, it took me some time to collect my all papers, my application was received in May by INS and within eight months I got my I140 approval. I found the other members of Mr. Khanna’s group are also very sincere and polite. I strongly suggest to those looking for an immigration lawyer to contact Mr. Khanna before deciding for the service of an attorney.I contacted Mr. Khanna in January this year regarding the filing of my Green-Card. I found him very polite, sincere and prompt person. Ms. Diane Lombardo is handling my case. She is very prompt; beyond my imagination. She hardly takes time for her response. Although, it took me some time to collect my all papers, my application was received in May by INS and within eight months I got my I140 approval. I found the other members of Mr. Khanna’s group are also very sincere and polite. I strongly suggest to those looking for an immigration lawyer to contact Mr. Khanna before deciding for the service of an attorney.