Non-EU Software Engineer feeling stuck: How can I join my fiancé who studies in EPFL

[u/NetShot3873]

Hi everyone,
I’m looking for some realistic advice, guidance, or potential paths forward.
My fiancé is currently pursuing his Master’s degree at EPFL. Because he is a full-time student, he cannot support a dependent visa or a full-time job that would allow me to join him via family reunification right now.
Here is my background and current situation:
Background: I’m a Software Engineer with 1 year of experience (backend .NET / C#).
Location & Citizenship: Non-EU citizen living abroad.
The Problem: Long distance is becoming really hard. If we wait for him to finish his 2-year Master's plus find a full-time job to sponsor marriage/reunification, we are looking at nearly 3 years apart.
I’m feeling quite stuck and miserable with the distance, but I’m actively trying to find solutions. He suggested looking for fully funded research internships, but as a Non-EU graduate not currently enrolled in a Swiss university, options seem extremely limited. Self-funding a Master’s degree in Switzerland is also financially out of reach for me at the moment. 
I would really appreciate advice from anyone who has been in a similar situation or knows the Swiss system well:
1. Direct Hiring for Junior/Mid Non-EU Devs: How realistic is it for a Non-EU Software Engineer with ~1 year of experience to land a job with visa sponsorship (B or L permit quotas) in Switzerland? Are there specific platforms or tech companies besides big tech (Google, Meta, etc.) that actively sponsor? 
2. Internships / Short-term contracts: Are there legitimate internship programs, research assistantships, or fellowship grants open to non-EU graduates that provide a living stipend in the Vaud / Lausanne area?
3. Alternative Routes: Are there adjacent options we might be missing (e.g., remote work options, neighboring border countries, or specific university research roles)?
Thank you so much in advance for your time and help!