As the conversation unfolds, Swetha’s story continues to resonate with many, sparking debates about ambition, resilience, and the sacrifices some are willing to make to pursue their dreams abroad
An Indian woman, Swetha Kothandan, has become the center of a heated online conversation after offering to work without pay in the UK in a bid to remain in the country, ndtv.com reported.
Swetha, who moved to the UK in 2021 and graduated with an MSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Leicester in 2022, took to LinkedIn with a bold proposal. She shared her journey, struggles, and the looming expiration of her Graduate Visa, urging employers to give her a chance—even if unpaid—so she can avoid deportation.
In her LinkedIn post, Swetha explained the hardships she faced while trying to secure a visa-sponsored position. Despite applying to over 300 roles, her efforts had yet to yield a job offer. She candidly offered to work 12-hour days, seven days a week, on a month-long, unpaid trial basis, with the condition that she could be dismissed at any time without notice or compensation if her performance was unsatisfactory.
Swetha’s plea sheds light on the intense competition and challenges many international students face in the UK job market, especially when their visas hinge on employment. Her story raises broader questions about job security, fair employment practices, and the difficulties international graduates encounter while navigating post-study work opportunities in foreign countries
“Hire me for free for one month. If I don’t deliver, fire me on the spot, no questions asked. My Graduate Visa expires in three months—repost this to help me stay in the UK,” Swetha wrote, highlighting her determination to establish a career abroad.
The post quickly went viral on LinkedIn and Reddit, drawing a mix of reactions. Some users expressed empathy, pointing out that the pressure to repay student loans may be driving her persistence. One supporter remarked, “I couldn’t imagine what she’s going through—finding a job in 30 days to avoid returning to India with a heavy loan must be overwhelming.” Others advised that her capabilities could shine globally, suggesting she focus on her skills rather than her location.
However, Swetha’s decision to offer unpaid labor also faced criticism. Some users argued that such actions could set unrealistic expectations for international students and recent graduates. “This ruins the image of Indian professionals abroad, damaging the chances of genuinely qualified candidates,” one user commented. Another criticized the implications of offering unpaid work in a tough job market, warning that it could lead to exploitation or fuel unrealistic employer expectations.
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