Hey there board ! I am an international student who did her undergrad and is currently pursuing her phD in the US (Texas specifically) . I met my bf of now three years while getting my phD. Now that I'm almost ready to graduate (I will be done this December) the bf and I are talking marriage but given that he is active duty military (USAF) stationed in California and I'm located in Texas we are trying to figure out what the best course of events is. Should we get married and apply for paper work subsequently while I'm still in F1 status or should I get on the OPT and then try to get married? I plan to seek employment in California once I'm done with my phD to be closer to my bf and realize the job search will be a lot easier without the visa issues on hand. Should we consult a JAG? What paperwork should we look to file immediately to help me find a job close to him post/pre marriage ? Any advice will be much appreciated.

Thank You!