On 14 January 2025, nearly 80 international students from various countries gathered for the Semester 2/2024 orientation at the Tha Prachan campus. The event began with an inspiring opening speech by the Vice Rector for International Affairs, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supreedee Rittironk, who warmly welcomed the students to their new cross-cultural environment. Dr. Supreedee also delivered insightful talks titled “Guidance for New TU Friends: Do’s and Don’ts in Thailand” and “All You Should Know About Thailand,” providing essential advice for navigating life in their host country.
Following this, Dr. Usanee Lertrattananon, Assistant to the Rector for International Affairs, encouraged students to embrace life in Thailand. She introduced the Office of International Affairs (OIA) team and its regional coordinators, ensuring students were well-acquainted with the resources available to them.
The morning session also included critical briefings by officials from the Immigration Bureau. Topics such as “Visa & Immigration Regulations” and “Application for Visa or Application for Change” were covered to assist students in seamlessly integrating into university life while adhering to local legal requirements.
In the afternoon, Lecturer Wiraphorn Hongwiangchan from the Faculty of Liberal Arts conducted an engaging session on Thai culture and provided an introduction to basic Thai language. This session aimed to equip students with a foundational understanding of their new cultural environment, fostering smoother day-to-day interactions.
Cultural and Campus Tours
The orientation extended into the following day, 15 January, with cultural and campus tours designed to deepen students’ connection to Thailand. The day began with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Emerald Buddha Temple, the Grand Palace, and Museum Siam. These tours provided an enriching glimpse into Thailand’s rich heritage, including its history, architecture, mural paintings, and stucco arts, as well as the evolution of archaeological artistry in the region.
In the afternoon, the OIA organized tours of key locations on the Tha Prachan campus, including the underground library, Pridi Plaza, the canteen, and the Health Center. Students also visited the Rangsit campus, where they explored notable facilities such as the Green Canteen, Sports Center, hospital, dormitories, and the Puey Ungphakorn Centenary Hall. These tours ensured students became familiar with the resources and spaces available to support their academic and personal well-being during their time at the university.
The two-day orientation program not only equipped international students with practical knowledge but also fostered a sense of community, preparing them for a successful and memorable experience at the university.
