Why I Said No (and What It Means for You)

Today, I turned down an offer to be Chair of the Faculty Senate.

Ten years ago, I would have tripped over myself to accept it. It was the kind of opportunity I once dreamed about: prestige, influence, another title to add behind my name.

But here’s the truth: my goals have changed. My definition of success has changed. And so has my mission.

I no longer chase titles. I chase alignment.

And that’s why I said no.

Let me explain.

Back then, I believed that influence was measured by titles and positions. The higher up you went, the more you “mattered.” That’s what I thought leadership looked like.

But life has a way of reshaping your priorities. Today, I know what matters most: serving international students to the best of my ability.

That’s not just work for me. That’s my assignment. That’s what God put me here to do.

And honestly? That calling feels more urgent than ever.

Because right now, international students are facing some of the biggest challenges we’ve seen in years:

• Duration of Status is being challenged. If changed, it could upend how long students can remain in the U.S. without filing constant extensions. That stability you rely on to focus on studies and careers? At risk.

• Visa interview rules have changed effective immediately. Students can no longer seek earlier interview slots at third-country embassies — they must apply in their country of residence. For many, that means delayed arrivals, missed program starts, and massive uncertainty.

These aren’t just “policy shifts.” They directly affect your life. Your degree. Your career. Your dreams.

And I can’t afford to split my focus right now.

Being Faculty Senate Chair would mean committee meetings, campus politics, and energy poured into things far removed from where the real need is. Saying yes to that would mean saying no — at least partially — to you.

So I chose differently.

I said no to a title. And yes to alignment. Yes to the mission. Yes to you.

Why am I sharing this?

Because I want you to know that I’m not here to dabble in international student work. I’m here because it’s the mission I’m called to. It’s what wakes me up in the morning and drives me forward.

It means when policies shift overnight, I’ll be here breaking them down for you.
It means when deadlines loom, I’ll give you strategies to stay ahead.
It means when you feel lost, I’ll remind you that you are not walking this journey alone.

That’s why I built my free community. It’s not just a forum. It’s a lifeline — a place where international students can access updates, strategies, and encouragement in real time. A place where you can ask questions, get clarity, and avoid costly mistakes.

If you haven’t joined yet, I’d love to invite you in. Because the truth is, navigating U.S. immigration and career systems is tough — but you don’t have to do it by yourself.

👉 [Join the Ask A DSO Community for Free]

This is more than a community. It’s a commitment. My commitment to you.

So yes, today I turned down a title that once meant everything to me. And I don’t regret it for a second. Because my focus is right where it needs to be: on you, your future, and the mission I was given to serve.

And I promise — I intend to live that out fully.

Always on Your Side,

Dr. Josh

P.S. If you’re ready to go even deeper — with advanced trainings, weekly calls, templates, and direct support — my Ask A DSO community is designed for you. It’s where I share the step-by-step strategies international students use to protect their status and land U.S. career opportunities.

👉 If you’re curious whether it’s the right fit for you, let’s jump on a quick call and talk it through. [Book a time here]