Top 5 Lessons from NAFSA 2024

🇺🇸

Author

Josh Schoonover
June 04, 2024

Read Time: 4 Minutes

This past week I was blessed to attend the NAFSA Annual Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana.

For those that don't know, NAFSA is "the world's largest and most diverse nonprofit association dedicated to international education and exchange, working to advance policies and practices that ensure a more interconnected, peaceful world today and for generations to come."

Over 10,000 educators, vendors, agencies, and advocates gathered for 4 days of workshops, community dialogue, networking, and sharing best practices dedicated to serving YOU.

I’m going to save you 4 days and thousands of dollars and share the Top 5 lessons for international students from this past week.

  1. Combatting Admissions Fraud: Importance of Due Diligence

  • Verify information from multiple sources:

    • Rely on official university channels for information rather than solely on agents.

    • Seek out students from your hometown who are already studying at the university for honest insights.

  • Be cautious of fraudulent practices:

    • Despite what some would lead you to believe, admissions fraud is NOT common, everyone is NOT doing it, and it IS a big deal.

  • Understand the risks:

    • Instances of admissions fraud can lead to invalidated exam scores or even legal consequences.

  1. Utilizing STEM Initiatives for Career Advancement

  • Explore STEM-related visa options:

    • Research programs like O-1A and NIW for potential career pathways.

    • Understand the eligibility criteria and application process for each visa category.

  • Document achievements effectively:

    • Utilize AI-assessment tools for preparing visa applications.

    • Consider publishing research in peer-reviewed journals to strengthen visa applications.

  • Engage in early discussions:

    • Discuss visa options with advisors well before the end of OPT to avoid delays or missed opportunities.

  1. Day 1 CPT: Balancing Work and Education

  • Understand CPT eligibility:

    • Ensure that any work done under CPT is directly related to your program of study.

    • Familiarize yourself with your school's CPT policies and requirements.

  • Document your CPT experience:

    • Keep thorough records of your CPT activities and ensure they align with your academic program.

    • Be aware of the importance of maintaining proper documentation for immigration purposes.

  • Seek guidance:

    • Consult with immigration advisors, legal experts, and/or your DSO to understand the implications of Day 1 CPT on your visa status.

  1. Navigating Tax and Employment Issues as an International Student

  • Understand tax implications:

    • Differentiate between active and passive income for tax purposes.

    • Consider seeking professional tax advice to ensure compliance with regulations.

  • Clarify employment regulations:

    • Be aware of limitations on employment opportunities as an international student.

    • Stay informed about changes in employment regulations and how they may affect your situation.

  • Evaluate opportunities carefully:

    • Assess the risks and rewards of employment agreements, especially in relation to visa status and tax implications.

  1. Seeking Assistance from USCIS Ombudsman and ISSS Offices

  • Know your support options:

    • Understand how to submit requests for assistance to USCIS Ombudsman or ISSS offices.

    • Be prepared to provide detailed information about your case to expedite the resolution process.

  • Advocate for yourself:

    • Communicate your needs effectively to ISSS offices or other relevant authorities.

    • Take advantage of available resources and support services to address immigration or visa-related issues.

  • Stay informed:

    • Keep abreast of updates from USCIS and other relevant agencies regarding policy changes or updates.

BONUS!!!

For those of you that made it this far, here are my Top 5 foods I ate in New Orleans, a city renowned for its culinary excellence.

5. Crab Cake Eggs Benedict

4. Fried catfish

3. Alligator jambalaya 

2. Boudin Balls 

And the best thing I ate this week was…

Have a great rest of your week, and if you have any questions that you’d like me to address in a future newsletter please don’t hesitate to hit that Reply button.

Because, as you can see, I’m here to provide tactical tips & strategies for your time here as a student in the U.S., and also for a little fun along the way.

After all, this space is 100% dedicated to helping YOU…

Live Your American Dream.

Josh