Associate Director - PDSO/ RO
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Global Higher Education Leader | International Student Advocate | Immigration Expert with 13+ years guiding students and institutions through U.S. immigration, study abroad, and global engagement. Passionate about building inclusive academic communities and empowering learners to thrive worldwide.
My expertise includes F-1 & J-1 student and scholar advising (PDSO & RO) 🎓, employment-based visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN) 💼, humanitarian pathways 🤝, religious worker visas ⛪, family-sponsored immigration 👨👩👧, institutional compliance, SEVIS reporting, and risk management.
I’ve led internationalization initiatives, compliance operations, and student engagement programs across research universities, private institutions, and state-run universities, developing policies, training faculty/staff, and designing programs focused on career development, cultural exchange, and social integration. I regularly present at NAFSA 🎤 and co-chair CEP workshops on F-1 & J-1 advising, compliance, and student success strategies.
As a biracial, bicultural third-culture individual and military child raised in India 🇮🇳, I deeply understand the challenges of cultural transitions. My lived experiences equip me to guide international students through new environments, policies, and career pathways.
I lead with empathy, humor, and a deep understanding of immigration regulations 🔍translating “visa-speak” into plain English, solving last-minute student crises, and keeping institutions compliant, all while maintaining a socially acceptable caffeine intake ☕.
Beyond professional work, I’m on a mission to build the “School of Life,” equipping learners with real-world skills, global perspectives, and resilience beyond the classroom. I also continue to explore the Bhagavad Gita, applying its wisdom to leadership, resilience, and personal growth ✨.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me mentoring students 🤝, exploring food spots 🍜, or laughing 😆 at the quirks of global education.
✨ Bridging borders, breaking barriers, and bringing humor to immigration one visa at a time! ✨
Let’s connect! 🌎🚀
WS06: J-1 Advising for Beginners
Monday, May 25, 2026
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EDT