This qualitative study utilizes seventeen F-1 international students' experiences in the U.S. Specifically, we examine the aspects of immigration regulations and policies regarding F-1 international students and the students' reactions to those policies--from becoming a legal alien, to maintaining lawful status, to job planning after graduation. This research suggests the current United States administration has created a moral panic over immigration, or the threat of immigration. As a result, this political rhetoric creates negative emotions for F-1 international students and impacts their decision-making after graduation.