On October 2, 2026, I successfully completed “A Primer on U.S. Immigration Concepts” and received a Certificate of Completion from NAFSA: Association of International Educators, a leading professional association in the field of international education with a global network of educators and professionals.

This course is part of the NAFSA Core Education Program and provides a foundation in U.S. immigration concepts relevant to international students and scholars. The curriculum covers important topics such as the distinction between visa and status, the roles of U.S. government agencies, admission to and maintenance of lawful status, F-1 students, J-1 Exchange Visitors, Form I-20, DS-2019, SEVIS, DSO responsibilities, employment authorization, and Change of Status (COS).

For me, the greatest value of completing this course is not simply receiving a certificate. It is about strengthening my knowledge and combining formal professional education with years of practical experience assisting international students.

One particularly important lesson is understanding professional boundaries—knowing which matters should be coordinated with a school’s Designated School Official (DSO) and when a situation should be referred to a qualified immigration attorney.

Throughout my years working in U.S. international education, I have always believed that experience must go hand in hand with continuous learning. U.S. immigration regulations and international student procedures involve significant detail, and accurate information can have a meaningful impact on a student’s educational journey.

This certificate represents another step in my commitment to professional development and to continually improving the knowledge and service standards of Rakoonda as we assist Thai students pursuing educational opportunities in the United States