Merrill Lynch PWM for F1 student unpaid - NEED work authorization?? Help!

Hey guys,

I am a sophomore and scheduled to work with Merrill Lynch PWM this summer (starting in 2 weeks). I am an international student on F1 Visa and was initially receiving pay, however rejected it because I didn't want to use my opt and heard that unpaid interns would not need work authorization.

However, a couple days ago I received forms to register for the position, and was shocked to see that they needed an I-9 form that checks to see if you're work authorized. I sent a couple of emails to my bosses assistant and the recruiting people to see if I can work as a volunteer without work authorization, however they have not replied me (voicemailed many times). Because I start in 10 days, if I DO need authorization, I have to get it ASAP via CPT.

So my question is, do Merrill etc typically need work authorization even if it's unpaid? Any chance I can persuade my way in to not need authorization? Or is Merrill too strict?

Thanks guys appreciate it

Also, on a side note, for a CPT, my school requires you to do an independent study in the fall that links to my job. I am actually very interested in doing a study on new laws in Myanmar/international trade/etc. However, I'm not sure if this relates. If you guys have any ideas to a topic that relates, I would appreciate some help.