F-1 OPT to H-1B status change

Hi, I have started working on an F-1 OPT status since July 1st, 2006, and meanwhile applied for H-1B but unfortunately missed the quota for fiscal year 2007. If I apply for an H-1B for fiscal year 2008 (once it is possible), but my OPT expires in June 2007, am I supposed to leave the country? Or if my petition is accepted I can stay in the US (but cannot work until Oct 1st, 2007)? Is there any way to avoid having to leave the US between the end of my OPT and beginning of my H-1B on Oct 1st, 2007?

If you don't have valid immigration status, you're supposed to leave the country. You can peruse the various types of visa available, to see if there is one which would permit you to stay during the period you would otherwise be out of status.