Honest input needed

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out for some honest and constructive guidance during a phase where I’m trying to reassess my career path.

I’m a Master’s graduate who has unfortunately exhausted all three H1B lottery attempts without selection. Realistically, this means my time in the US is coming to an end, and I’m now preparing for what comes next.

**Profile:**

Professionally, I have been working as an SAP Business Analyst over the past couple of years (Wage Level I). My experience primarily lies in SAP ECC Sales (O2C) and SAP GTS, where I’ve worked extensively on pricing logic, compliance processes, and system integrations across ECC, GTS and MDG landscapes. Recently getting my hands on S4HANA too.

My current work involves configuring pricing solutions for new requirements, handling enhancements, and supporting compliance workflows. I’ve also taken on responsibilities beyond my role, including acting as an interim project manager for an internal SAP GTS project. In that capacity, I was actively involved in SIT, ensuring compliance checks functioned correctly post migration. My role requires close collaboration with globally distributed teams across business, security, integration, and basis functions. I’ve coordinated testing efforts, driven sign offs, and supported production readiness activities, including CAB approvals. I also have strong experience in documentation, from functional specifications to change management documentations such as ChaRM requests and audit communications, ensuring full traceability and compliance. Additionally, I’ve been recognized by my manager for my ability to quickly identify and resolve production issues ahead of deadlines.

**Current situation & options:**

My company does have entities in Europe and Canada, so my primary option is to explore an internal transfer. However, I cannot rely on this possibility alone without having a solid backup plan in place. Essentially, I am actively looking for a “backup to my backup.”

**Options I’ve consciously ruled out:**

Day 1 CPT: With my F1 visa nearing expiry, I’m uncertain about the visa renewal process and potential complications. It would also require taking on additional financial burden through loans, which I’m trying to avoid.

PhD: Given my current mindset, I don’t believe I would be able to pursue research with genuine passion. Enrolling in a PhD purely as a means to stay longer does not feel right to me ethically.

**What I’m looking for:**

With my background and experience, I would truly appreciate honest insights on:

a. Realistic job opportunities I can target in India or other countries

b. Roles or career paths where my current SAP experience would translate well

c. Suggestions to strengthen my profile further

d. Certifications or skills that would meaningfully improve my chances

e. Where exactly I should start looking for roles (platforms, strategies, or specific approaches

f. Companies or organizations I should actively target or follow for openings

I’m open to constructive criticism, anything that can genuinely help me grow and make better decisions. I just ask that it comes with understanding, this has been a difficult reality to process, and I’m trying to move forward in the best way possible.

Thank you in advance for your time and guidance.