Peanutbutterman, be careful though, these indian consultancies are not providing free charity services in the usa by providing free food and lodging. They often make you sign contract and keep their legal option open to sue you for training and lodging if they want to, make sure to read the fine print if you do decide to follow that route, my 2 cents. often they sue you for more than 10 grand. now it's a different story that lots of times they don't really pursue because they don't want to get in trouble by opening Pandora's box because they are shady themselves, but still be careful. the consultancy route is mostly followed by f1 students because of the visa technicality they need to find jobs quickly. looks like you are going to have better options when you will be in the U.S then a F1 student , and i'm sure you'll make the wise decision. My best wishes.