Many immigrants come to the US with advanced degrees and credentials, but because of outdated laws and policies, we’re unable to utilize them. Many end up in low wage jobs although we are trained as doctors, teachers, lawyers and nurses. This term has been coined ‘brain waste’ and OneAmerica has been working with our partners to ensure immigrants with degrees from another country have opportunities to advance in our professional fields.
This report explains the scope and significance of the “brain waste” problem and examines how two sectors in particular – nursing and teaching – could benefit from the more effective utilization of this immigrant talent pool.