A new order from President Donald Trump, and a warning from Homeland Security, has at least half a dozen UC schools pausing programs that international students need to get working internships – UC Berkeley is one of those schools. Earlier this month, UC schools announced they were temporarily suspending the program. Those suspensions started after a notice from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office. The agency warned schools that participate in the Student and Exchange Visitor program would face increased risk of investigation by federal agencies. “It would’ve been nice to at have least the ability to take an internship here, so that actually does suck,” UC Berkley International student Leander Hirsch said. CPT allows for F-1 visa students to take part in internships. On Aug. 13, the UC Berkeley International Office issued a lengthy statement outlining the changes. In the statement, the office says they are suspending CPT applications considered “integral to the program of study but are not a degree requirement.” The bottom line, it’s going to be harder for international students to find work in their field of study. “We are in the land of the free and you should be able to work or at least expand your horizon through internships not just college experience,” Hirsch said. UC Berkeley says it made the move to reduce risks to the university and avoid potential immigration issues for students. Some students say they’re still trying to figure out if they’re affected. “If it impacts me directly that would suck, of course, but I will have to check with all the offices,” UC Berkley International student Matteo Martullo said. As for how long the program could stay paused, the International Office also says they are consulting with lawyers to figure out how to proceed. ...read more read less