A story from IL

I am an F-1 PhD student in School Psychology in Illinois. I came to the US lawfully, first for my master's, then my PhD. I married a wonderful US citizen, and we were building our life together, planning our future, even hoping to start a family. Then, everything changed with the new USCIS policy memoranda, specifically PM-602-0194. Suddenly, my adjustment of status and work authorization applications are on an indefinite hold, simply because I am from Iran. The stress and anxiety this has caused are immense. My husband and I are in limbo; we can't make plans, we can't even think about getting pregnant because my immigration status is so uncertain. I have valid F-1 status until 2027, but the clock is ticking, and I don't know how I can continue my studies or pursue my post-doctoral work to become licensed and help autistic students. This policy is not just a bureaucratic delay; it's putting my life, my marriage, and my career on hold. I just want to contribute to this country and live peacefully with my husband.