genuine advice please

Hi everyone,

My STEM OPT is expiring soon, and I was not selected in the H-1B lottery. I am currently working full-time for a company and am deciding between:

• A fully funded PhD
• A DBA at a Day 1 CPT university while continuing work

The PhD offers a traditional academic path, but I would likely step away from industry experience. The DBA would allow me to continue working, gain experience, and pursue future H-1B and employment-based sponsorship opportunities.

My main concern is whether spending 3–4 years on CPT through a Day 1 CPT program could create issues for future H-1B, PERM, or green card applications.

Has anyone faced a similar decision or gone through this path? I would appreciate any insights.

Thank you!