What do I do when a vice president of a company offered me a job with a handsome salary when I am in F1 status? The job isnt related to my field. I just enrolled for the doctorate.

Feel great to yourself and just wish 'if I had a green card'. Smile, say 'No thank you' and get back to your research.

I had to read twice before I could even answer. So you are asking  - if you'd want to take the job offer not related to your field OR continue your Doctorate in your field of study. While there are many successful people who've jumped through hoops and done awesome in their new jobs, specially if you're in related courses like e.g. Mathematics and Computer Science. I'd still ask you what do you really want to do? Dont get lured of the "handsome" salary, think about being in something career-wise you'd enjoy doing for the rest of your life. Be it now, or after your Doctorate defense.

I had to read twice before I could even answer. So you are asking  - if you'd want to take the job offer not related to your field OR continue your Doctorate in your field of study. While there are many successful people who've jumped through hoops and done awesome in their new jobs, specially if you're in related courses like e.g. Mathematics and Computer Science. I'd still ask you what do you really want to do? Dont get lured of the "handsome" salary, think about being in something career-wise you'd enjoy doing for the rest of your life. Be it now, or after your Doctorate defense.

 If the job is what you really want to do, talk with your international advisor, they will be able to help you out.
Applying CPT might also help.

@sleepless In my situation financial stability is the necessity. Having job will help. But the status won't help. So I was looking if there is any loophole that I could take that job while I'm in F1 status. I wont mind doing it part time and continue my doctorate as well. Having doctorate degree is certainly prestigous and you never know I could be a great scientist ;) but I dont want to go broke for next 5-6 years.

@camerapicture I was thinking the same. When the semester begins, I will talk to school immigration officer if they can issue me CPT. But I'm not sure if they will grant it since its not related to my field.

Also some queries :
1.Do I not have to finish at least 1 year before I can even apply for CPT?
2. If I work part time during CPT, how long can I work and can I still be eligible for OPT later?
Thanks in advance.

Khairey,

Is there any chance that your employer will sponsor your greencard down the road? If there is, then it might be well worth pursuing the job, earning the money, getting your paper work together. Then you can return back to your academics in a lot better financial, legal and mental state. It will help you to pursue your passion for the subject of your choice.

If that company can sponser H1B from your Bachelor's or Masters, I think you must be able to work. even if the job is not related to your field, and if you really want that job and Vice Presedent really wants you, they can change the title of the Position which will look like the the position from your field.
Also there is a possibiltiy that you might have studied some subjects related with that field as well,,hover over your transcript ..