ST. GEORGE, Utah — A bittersweet moment unfolded at Utah Tech University this week as a handful of international students crossed the stage ahead of schedule — not for convenience, but because they are being forced to leave the country earlier than expected.
Aaron Romero, a student from abroad, accepted his diploma during a small, early graduation ceremony on Tuesday. Like many international students across the U.S., Romero’s student visa was abruptly revoked under intensified immigration enforcement measures, prompting an unplanned and emotional farewell.
Fighting for the Future
“I’m fighting for my dreams,” Romero said. “I want to build my own company and become the best version of myself.”
While Utah Tech’s official commencement ceremony is set for May 2, Romero and three other students were honored two weeks early. The reason? Their student visas were canceled without prior warning, giving them just days to prepare for departure.
“They were given a 15-day notice to leave the country,” explained Shadman Bashir, executive director of international programs at Utah Tech. “There was no heads-up — it just happened.”
A Growing Trend
This situation isn’t isolated. Across the country, hundreds of international students are facing similar challenges, as visa revocations appear to be increasing. At the University of Utah, school administrators reported that the government cited “failure to maintain nonimmigrant status” as the reason for cancellations — though specifics remain unclear in many cases.
University officials are calling for better communication and clearer protocols from federal authorities moving forward.
“I hope institutions like ours receive clearer guidance from the government in the future,” Bashir said. “That way, we can better support our international students and avoid the confusion and stress we’re seeing now.”
Saying Goodbye — Too Soon
For Romero, the early send-off is filled with mixed emotions. He had hoped to graduate alongside his classmates, surrounded by the friends he made during his time in the U.S.
“It’s sad to leave this dream behind,” he said. “But I still have my goals. I’ll just have to chase them somewhere else.”
Romero’s optimism remains intact, even in the face of uncertainty. “I believe everything will work out. The dream hasn’t changed — only the location has.”
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