Spider Spotlight
A Q&A with Krittika Onsanit
International Student & Internship Advisor
Office of International Education
By Phillip Gravely
Writer/Editor, University Communications
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Krittika Onsanit works with international students and scholars.
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Where are you from originally?
I grew up in Virginia Beach. My parents are originally from Thailand, but they've been living in the states for a long time now.
How long have you been at the University? What bought you here?
A little over five years. My husband and I were living in San Francisco, and we wanted to move back to be closer to family-and affordable housing.
What does your job entail?
I work with all international students and scholars to provide advice and support on immigration, employment, health insurance, academic, cultural and practical matters. I organize orientation at the beginning of each semester for the new international students. I do a lot of advising, organize workshops, and cultural and social events. I also manage the international summer internship program.
Is there a "typical" day for you?
No. It's different every day, and that's one of the things I really like about the job.
What's the most challenging part of your job?
Our philosophy for international students is one of integration on campus and in the community. It's always a challenge to find the most effective ways to do that-academically, culturally, socially-and counter the tendency to stick with your own kind.
What's the most rewarding part of your job?
I enjoy getting to know the international students, being able to form long-term relationships with them and with their families in some cases, and watching them grow. I also really like learning about the different countries, languages and cultures. International students are such a rich source of education and such a treat to be around.
When you're not at work, what are you likely to be doing?
I like traveling, cooking, yoga, reading, running.
Do you run recreationally or in organized races?
Both. I'm trying to work up to the half-marathon in Virginia Beach next year, but we'll see how that goes.
Do you have a favorite movie?
I have a lot of favorite movies. I really like Star Wars-the first trilogy.
Tell me something about you that your colleagues may not know.
I'm a Law & Order junkie. And I'm messy at home.
Is there anything else that defines you?
Yes, I'm Buddhist. My parents are very actively so, though the nature of Buddhism really is more of a personal philosophy. We're not really big into rituals, going to temple, etc. It's more of a guide of how to view the world and how to understand and allay the causes of suffering. I've done some work with the chaplaincy, serving as a resource on Buddhism. That's something that not too many people know.
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