This was the unspoken question behind every line of the I-20. The I-20 was his invitation, but it was also a contract. It said: We, WPI, believe Aarav has the academic chops and the financial backing to survive here. Now, US Government, do you believe he will leave when the party’s over?
This was the trap. He couldn't say he wanted to stay in the US forever. He also couldn't lie and say he'd definitely go back to India if he had a Nobel Prize-level opportunity in Boston. wpi i20
Aarav pulled out a printed email chain. "Yes, ma'am. He said there might be a funded RA position in Spring. That would reduce my family's burden. It's in the folder." This was the unspoken question behind every line of the I-20
"He is the principal of a government secondary school in Thane, ma'am." Now, US Government, do you believe he will
She took the email, read it, and her posture softened.
Then she smiled. "Your I-20 is in order. Your scholarship is excellent, and you have a credible plan. Your visa is approved. Welcome to the United States."
"Yes, ma'am. My family believes in this. But I also want to be clear—WPI has a co-op program. It's not required, but it's common. The cost on the I-20 is the maximum. I intend to work on campus as a research assistant after my first semester. I've already been in touch with Professor Dmitry Berenson about his work in manipulation planning."