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How to start a brand as international and creative person in usa from scrach in minimum budget after graduation what steps should be taken to start a successful career?

I am doing my masters in usa and what to know more about my career options here as I want to start my own brand so I need to know the details of every steps and legal formalities that should be followed to start a professional career

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David’s Answer

Hi Ifrah,

That's awesome you're pursuing your master's in the U.S. and thinking ahead about launching your own brand. Starting from scratch on a tight budget is absolutely possible with the right steps. Here’s a roadmap that blends career-building with starting a brand as an international and creative individual:

Step 1: Understand Your Visa & Work Options (Post-Graduation)
As an international student, your ability to work or start a business legally depends on your visa status.

1. **F-1 Visa Students (Post-OPT/CPT Options)**
- **OPT (Optional Practical Training)**: You can work or even start a business directly related to your field of study for up to 12 months after graduation (or up to 36 months for STEM fields).
- **CPT (Curricular Practical Training)**: While still studying, you can intern or do training that counts toward your degree.

2. **Switching to a Work/Startup-Friendly Visa**
- **H-1B Visa**: Sponsored by an employer, but some startups have sponsored founders.
- **O-1 Visa**: For individuals with extraordinary abilities in creative fields (art, music, design, etc.)
- **International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP)**: For startup founders with a scalable idea and funding.
- **Green Card (eventually)**: Through employment, investment, or family.

> You’ll want to talk to an immigration lawyer to ensure you can start and run a business legally. I can help you list some top immigration law firms if needed.

Step 2: Narrow Down Your Brand Concept
Before going all in, define:
- **What is your brand?** (Fashion, tech, art, design, beauty, wellness?)
- **Who is your audience?** (U.S. locals, international markets, niche communities?)
- **What makes you unique?** (Cultural perspective? Design aesthetic? Storytelling?)

Use your creative edge to stand out!

Step 3: Legal Setup on a Budget
1. **Choose a Business Structure**:
- **LLC (Limited Liability Company)** is the most common for solo founders.
- **Sole Proprietorship** is easy and low-cost but riskier.
- If you need co-founders or funding: consider a **C-Corp (Delaware)**.

2. **Register Your Business** (can be done online in most states):
- Pick a state (e.g., Delaware for flexibility, or your current residence).
- File Articles of Organization ($50–$300).
- Get an **EIN (Employer Identification Number)** for free from the IRS.
- Apply for a **business license** (depends on your city/state).

3. **Open a Business Bank Account** using your EIN.

Step 4: Build Your Brand Identity
1. **Name & Logo**: Use Canva or free tools to design.
2. **Website**: Use platforms like Shopify, Wix, or Squarespace.
3. **Social Media**: Build your presence on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, etc.
4. **Create Content**: Tell your story, showcase products/services, and build community.

Step 5: Learn & Network Like Crazy
- **Join startup communities** (check Meetup, Eventbrite, and your school’s entrepreneur groups).
- **Attend pitch competitions, hackathons, or brand bootcamps**.
- **Follow industry blogs**, YouTubers, and influencers in your niche.

You can also apply to startup accelerators like:
- **Y Combinator**
- **Techstars**
- **500 Startups**
- **Antler (for global founders)**

Step 6: Sell & Scale on a Budget
- Use **free or low-cost marketing tools**: email (Mailchimp), analytics (Google), and SEO tools.
- Start with **direct sales** on Instagram, Etsy, or local pop-ups.
- Gather **testimonials**, customer feedback, and iterate.

Bonus: Side Hustles to Sustain You
While your brand grows, consider freelancing or part-time work in:
- Graphic design, content creation, social media management.
- Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Contra, or Toptal.
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Dr. Kelly’s Answer

Hi Ifrah,

What field were you planning on producing a product in? We might be able to better guide you on legalities and the path to success with some information on your intended field or link you up with subject-matter experts.

Dr. Kelly recommends the following next steps:

Investigate a problem that needs fixing
What makes your solution unique when compared to others on the market
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