Being a foreign scientist in Trump’s America

How is the Trump administration affecting foreign scientists working in the US?

A Spanish bioscience postdoc on a non-immigrant J1 visa, based in California, who wishes to remain anonymous, shares her perspective as a foreigner in the US in the current political climate with science writer Louisa Cockbill.

We’re now three months into Trump’s presidency.  What effect has it had on you?

On election night I was very disappointed and upset. It was frustrating not to have the right to vote as the political decisions made in this country affect my life. The uncertainty of what happens now is kind of scary. In general I still feel welcomed and still love living here. However, as an immigrant, a woman and a scientist it’s not surprising that I’m a little worried – these aren’t positions that seem to be supported by the administration. I check nearly every day to see if they have decided to change something with my visa or green card applications that may affect me personally.

The inauguration of President Trump

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