International Students in Architecture: Navigating H1B Changes

Welcome to ArchK Founder Talk, where expert insights meet strategic guidance to shape your career journey.

In this series, ArchK Founder Krystin Che shares perspectives on industry trends, career timelines, and long-term development strategies in the architecture field. Gain clarity from an experienced professional who has guided countless designers, equipping you with the vision and confidence to plan ahead and build a sustainable career path.

About the Event:

Starting in 2026, the new H1B salary-weighted system will reshape career prospects—especially in architecture, where many entry-level salaries fall below the new threshold.

As an international student, you may be asking:

• What does this change really mean for architecture majors?
• How much harder will it be to land a job and maintain long-term stability?
• How can I plan ahead and turn this shift into an advantage?

In this talk, ArchK Founder Krystin will break down the new rules in simple terms, share real-world cases, and reveal where opportunities still exist—across cities, job types, and firms—so you can make informed choices and stay ahead.

What You’ll Learn

• H1B Made Simple – Understand the 2026 salary-weighted system and why it matters for architecture graduates.
• Real Cases, Real Impact – See before-and-after examples showing how the new policy reshapes job prospects.
• Where the Opportunities Are – Learn which cities, firms, and roles give international architects the best chances.
• Beyond H1B: O1 & EB1 Explained – Get a clear overview of alternative visa pathways and how to start preparing early.
• Career Strategies That Work – Practical steps to plan ahead, adapt to policy changes, and build a sustainable career in the U.S.

About Our Host:

Krystin Che, founder of ArchK, is a versatile designer with a Master’s in Advanced Architectural Design from the University of Pennsylvania. She has worked on major projects at Gensler—including NEOM’s The Line and urban master plans in Chicago—and received honors such as the A+Awards Jury Winner and the American Architecture Prize.

Since launching ArchK in 2022, Krystin has built a global community of 5,000+ students, partnering with 70+ universities to deliver portfolio coaching, job search strategy, and career mentorship. She is passionate about bridging education and practice, helping international architects thrive in today’s shifting career landscape.

Who Should Attend:

This session is ideal for international architecture students in the US, recent graduates, and early-career designers who want to take a proactive approach to their long-term career development.

If you’re ready to take control of your career, make strategic choices, and gain a competitive edge in a shifting job market, this talk will equip you with the insights and actionable strategies you need to stand out.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain clarity, make informed decisions, and set yourself up for long-term success in architecture!

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