A World of Opportunities and Success: Navigating the International Student Experience at Chula

Across the world, students pack their dreams alongside their suitcases, embarking on life-changing journeys at Chulalongkorn University. More than just a center for academic excellence, Chula campus has become a second home. A place where students explore new languages, customs, and lifelong friendships. 

As Thailand’s oldest and most prestigious university, Chulalongkorn University is becoming increasingly global. It currently welcomes 1,540 international students, a number that grows annually. This growing diversity reflects the university’s commitment to global engagement, supported by modern facilities including well-equipped libraries, student centers, health and counseling services, sports complexes, and accommodation support designed to enhance daily student life on campus.

Beyond the facilities, Chulalongkorn University offers a vibrant community through active student associations, international clubs, and cultural groups that encourage interaction and friendship among Thai and international students. From volunteer programs to language exchanges and social events, these initiatives foster meaningful connections between Thai and international students that extend well beyond graduation.

Life as an International Student at Chula

For many, the first week at Chulalongkorn University remains a vivid memory—walking beneath the shade of the iconic rain trees, carrying a mix of curiosity, and excitement. The campus feels alive with distinct accents and stories, proving that the Chula experience is far greater than what happens in the classroom.

The reflections of three current international students highlight how their journeys have nurtured not only their intellectual development but also their personal growth, shaping their perspectives, skills, and sense of self in meaningful ways.

Mr. Love Thomas Hillmo, a Swedish Automotive Design and Manufacturing Engineering (ADME) student from Chula International School of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, shared, “I was impressed by the scale of the campus and how significant Chula’s influence is on both the surrounding community and Thai society. It feels prestigious when locals reacted so positively upon hearing that I was studying at Chulalongkorn University.”

Love also noted the convenience of campus life. “The food was affordable, diverse, and “aroi mak” which means very delicious. Transportation to and from the university was also smooth. There were many enjoyable activities, from food markets and live music to sports in excellent facilities.”

“I have many great memories from the cultural festivals organized at the university. During the autumn semester, I hosted a booth at the Culture Fest where I served Swedish sweets and fika. Share my own culture while discovering others was wonderful.  I even joined a band with other Thai and international students to perform in a band at another festival–it was an incredible experience.”

Mr. Sherwin Hugo Lu, a Filipino graduate in Master of Science in Green Chemistry and Sustainability, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, chose Chula to fully immerse himself in the Thai language. “As I learned the language and connected with people, I fell even in love with the culture and way of life here. From barely knowing the university’s name to loving it as my second home, Chula has become truly special to me.”  

“Chula has definetely fulfilled my expectations. I just love the culturual aspects too and to also name others like the public transportation, the convenience of travelling to other provinces, entertainment, better event management, the mall culture and some other luxuries that are so expensive back home.”

Mr. Michael Ojo, a Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning student at the Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University finds constant inspiration in the academic environment. “Over my time here, I have been continually inspired by everything at Chula and throughout Thailand. We have exceptional lecturers and administrative staff who are always open, ready to help, and supportive. The world-class facilities and international collaborations, like study trips and boot camps, allow us to tap into the global knowledge.”

“Chula has not only met but exceeded my expectations. I have been genuinely transformed. I am confident that after my PhD., I will emerge as a global reference in my field, making an impact across nations and governments while contributing to solving the challenges confronting humanity today.”

International Student Affairs: A Home Away from Home

At the heart of Chulalongkorn University’s vibrant international community is a passionate group of student leaders known as the International Student Affairs (ISA). Now in its third year, ISA has become a cornerstone of intercultural exchange, providing the support and leadership necessary for international students to thrive at Chula.

Founded in 2024, ISA was first led by Ms. Kanpitcha Rakwong, a former ISA President and a passionate English major from the Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University. Under the guidance of the Student Government of Chulalongkorn University (SGCU), ISA has evolved into a lively, student-driven organization where members actively shape its direction, through annual elections and fresh initiatives.

Language and cultural understanding often form the first hurdles international students encounter. She shared that, “International students sometimes feel they don’t have a platform to express themselves or access the same information Thai students receive.”

From delayed updates to missed announcements—especially for major campus events—language barriers can isolate international students. But the team at ISA is working to improve information accessibility through WhatsApp groups, bilingual announcements, and intensive outreach during major events.

The need for a better information ecosystem is clear—and the ISA is advocating for more inclusive communication at all levels.

Today, the leadership mantle has passed to Ms. Kanitthar Sinthupatsuk as the President of the International Student Affairs (ISA) for the academic year 2025-2026. She is from the Faculty of Communication Arts, Chulalongkorn University. She emphasized that the direction of ISA would remain its energetic vibe—a welcoming, student-led community, committed to amplifying student voices and creating meaningful opportunities.

“To be honest, it has been very challenging and exhausting. I did not expect the level of responsibility to be this extensive. Being President is not just about leading a classroom; it’s about representing and hosting an entire international student community within Chulalongkorn University. However, every time I see people smile, or when I approach international students, whether they are exchange students or full-time degree students, I am reminded of why this role matters,” Ms. Kanitthar Sinthupatsuk shared.

Many international students feel lonely or struggle to find a sense of belonging, especially since most university activities are conducted in Thai. International Student Affairs serves as a space where they can feel included, supported, and understood. Like other universities, orientation programs are tailored to international students, helping them acclimate to their new environment. These programs introduce students to various aspects of university life—ranging from academic expectations to cultural norms, while also offering support networks for international students to meet others from different parts of the world.

For Mr. Gourav Dey, a graduate student from Bangladesh who took International Master’s in Architectural Design (im+Arch) from the Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, the orientation was a turning point.

“The orientation program was incredibly helpful,” Gourav shares. “It wasn’t just about administrative tasks; it included crucial sessions on Thai cultural etiquette, safety, navigating transportation in Bangkok, and an introduction to the university’s academic expectations and traditions. This early exposure significantly eased the culture shock and provided a support network right from day one, making the transition much smoother.”

In addition, the acting ISA President Ms. Kanitthar said that the association plays a critical role in representing international student voices within university governance. Working closely with the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) and the Student Government of Chulalongkorn University (SGCU), their collaboration channels through structures like the Student Council and the OSA, giving international students a platform in institutional decision-making.

Creating Connections: Chattitude & Culture Fest

Chattitude

One of the most enriching aspects of studying abroad as an international student is the cultural exchange. One of the association’s academic and cultural events is “Chattitude”. A clever blend of “chat” and “attitude”, this seminar series features guest speakers and thought leaders. With 3–6 sessions annually, it provides students with inspiring talks and leadership insights, bridging academic and personal development.

Chattitude fosters cultural exchange, builds community, and helps international students navigate life in Thailand by sharing experiences and tackling common challenges in a fun, supportive environment. These events offer safe spaces for students to discuss topics like cultural norms, travel anxieties, and identity, often featuring guest speakers, games, and cultural activities. In essence, Chattitude helps international students connect, learn from each other, and build confidence while exploring their new environment.

Culture Fest

Another annual flagship event is the annual Culture Fest, a vibrant celebration tailored especially for international students to celebrate diversity and global connection. International students take center stage, showcasing their heritage through traditional food, clothing, and music, learning from one another in a lively, welcoming environment.  

By sharing unique customs, stories, and flavors from around the world, they help create a deeper appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. The experience not only highlights the richness of global traditions but also encourages cultural exchange, understanding, and a sense of belonging within the community.

Mr. Jean Laurent Stephen Lyajoon from Mauritius, an Environment, Development & Sustainability student from the Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, shared: “There is this form of openness towards everyone. Everyone in Chula goes out of their way to include international students into local activities and gives us the opportunity to share our culture and tradition. Participating in activities like Culture Fest and ISA’s Chattitude, we are encouraged to share our differences and cultural practices, creating a safe space for everyone to feel welcomed.”

“Moreover, my most enjoyable experiences at Chula were from the inclusion of international students into the local environment. I was welcomed into the Chula community and got to experience local Thai hospitality. I joined a lot of clubs like iGEN, ISA, and even the local Ju-Jitsu, which helped me a lot to meet others.”

The Power of Student-Led Initiatives

International student groups at universities are the backbone of a welcoming campus. These organizations are often student-led and work hand-in-hand with university administration to create a nurturing environment where international students can thrive both academically and personally.

At Chula, the Culture Fest stands as ISA’s defining achievement. This annual celebration unites food, music, dance, and traditional attire from across the globe, powerfully reflecting the university’s enduring commitment to diversity, inclusion, and meaningful intercultural exchange.

The Logistics of Impact

Meaningful events require meticulous planning. At ISA, ideas are submitted at least two months in advance for approval. Though the process can be lengthy, it opens doors for cultural celebration and community-building. One notable example was a student-led event for Myanmar, organized unofficially but with full ISA support and OSA coordination. The event showcased the organization’s ability to foster community even through unofficial or spontaneous channels.

Navigating Challenges: Bridging the Information Gap

Despite their success, the ISA continues to tackle ongoing hurdles:

• Language and Culture: Overcoming barriers in communication remains top priority.
• Information Centralization: Many students arrive with minimal guidance, relying on a patchwork of WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and word-of-mouth through hubs like CU I-House, I-Gen, and BALAC community chats.
• Facultative Consistency: To ensure every student receives the same high level of support, ISA is working to establish more direct, consistent collaborations with individual faculty departments.

A Global Network: Chula’s Student Associations

Chulalongkorn is home to a rich tapestry of national student groups that provide a sense of belonging and cultural pride:

1. Mauritius Students Association – Mauritius

2. Bangladesh Students Association – Bangladesh

3. Malaysian Students Association – Malaysia

4. Nigerian Students Association – Nigeria

5. Swedes Students Association – Sweden

6. Barangay Chula – Republic of the Philippines

7. Myanmar Students Association – Myanmar

8. Chinese Students Association – China

The Welfare of International Students: Beyond Academics

While academic success is a major focus, the welfare of international students goes beyond just grades. For many international students, studying abroad can be both exciting and challenging. Adapting to a new country, culture, and education system can cause stress and anxiety. As such, many universities have taken proactive steps to support students’ mental health. Counseling services, peer support groups, and cultural clubs are just some of the ways that universities help international students feel supported. At Chula, a robust support system is provided to address the mental, physical, and emotional challenges of studying abroad.

Mental Health:

One of the biggest hurdles for international students is managing their mental health while adjusting to a new environment. The group provides a safe space for students to talk about their struggles, whether related to academic pressures, social isolation, or personal challenges. This kind of emotional support can make a significant difference, as it helps students feel less isolated and more connected to their university community.

Mr. Nour K.N Houbri, a Palestinian who is working for a Master’s in Veterinary Science at the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University said that “The experience regarding emotional well-being at Chula can be a “mixed bag” depending on individuals and the faculty atmosphere. The university has an established center called “Chula Student Wellness” which provides free counseling and psychological services. They have been active in promoting mental health awareness through workshops and “Healing Room” initiatives.”

Ms. Izzatti Zaki from Malaysia, taking her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Care at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University offers this advice: “Don’t be scared. Chula is a place to grow with plenty of opportunities for students to seize. Explore Bangkok, travel to learn about Thailand, make new friends, and respect the local culture. Keep in touch with your embassy—they are like your family abroad. If you can find your country’s student association in Thailand, they can guide you through the preparation for studying in Thailand. If there is no student association, the international student affairs at your university may also assist you in preparing to come to Thailand as a student. Another important thing is to learn about the local culture and basic conversations in the local language.”

Empowering International Students Through Digital Culture and Community

As ISA grows, its mission remains clear: to share cultural heritage, support international students, and build bridges between communities.  However, reaching diverse student body in the digital age requires constant adaptation.

Communication platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook serve as the primary lifelines for communication and the team has observed interesting trends in engagement.

According to Ms. Kanpitcha Rakwong, “When we post in Thai, we get more likes,” one student noted. “But when we post in English, the numbers drop.” The team attributes this to generational preferences (many Gen Z students are moving away from Facebook) and language familiarity. Still, they see hope in short-form content like Instagram reels and TikToks—bite-sized, visual formats that can break through language and attention barriers. The university has also ventured into creating TikTok content under Chula’s official branding, aiming to present a more fun and accessible image—even if some students admit the AI-generated characters are more entertaining than informative.”

The Power of a Shared Experience

The International Student Group is a vital part of the university experience for students who are studying abroad. It provides a sense of community, academic and professional support, cultural exchange, and emotional well-being, all of which play a crucial role in helping international students succeed and feel valued.

For Mr. Yingyilong Hu, a Ph.D. student from China at the Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University shared that his time at Chula was shaped by his internship at the Office of International Affairs (OIA).  “From May 2023 to October 2024, I interned at the OIA office, supporting various international engagement programs,” he shared. “Although I stepped down to focus on my research, this role allowed me to give back to the international community and gain valuable experience in global collaboration,” he explains. During his tenure, he helped organized several key events such as the International Student Orientation, CU Joint Summer Camp, CU Open House (UG, PG, & Ph.D.), World Education Fair, exchange programs, and joint initiatives with global university alliances including AUA, AUN, and APRU. His journey proves that student involvement is a two-way street: it supports the community while building a world-class professional resume.

Why Join the International Student Community?

For students considering studying abroad, joining a student group is the difference between simply studying in a foreign country and truly thriving in it. These groups provide:

• A Vital Support Network – Connect with peers who understand the unique challenges of homesickness, adjusting to a new academic system, or just finding someone who speaks the same language.
• Academic and Professional Growth – Access study groups, tutoring sessions, research workshops and networking events. These sessions can focus on specific academic skills, such as writing research papers, improving language proficiency, or preparing for exams.
• Direct Advocacy – Make sure your voice is heard.  ISA represents international students in university committees, addressing concerns over visa regulations, housing, and financial aid.

By the Numbers: Chula’s International Community

For an overview of Chulalongkorn University’s key statistics, including student enrollment and academic data, please visit the CU Public Dashboard at this link: https://dashboard.reg.chula.ac.th/board/cupublic

International students who are interested in studying at Chulalongkorn University may also explore additional resources such as information on international programs, admissions requirements, exchange opportunities, and student support services.

You may visit the following links:

• International Programs: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/academics/programs/international-programs/
• Short Programs: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/academics/programs/short-programs/
• Scholarships:  https://www.chula.ac.th/en/academics/admissions/scholarships/
• Accommodation: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/academics/life-at-cu/accommodation/
• Office of Student Affairs: https://www.sa.chula.ac.th/en/

Ready to Join the Chula Family?

Joining students’ group can assist students with professional development opportunities, such as networking events, internships, and career guidance tailored to the needs of international students who may be navigating job markets in a foreign country.

Whether you’re facing the challenges of adjusting to a new culture, navigating academic pressures, or simply looking for a group of friends who understand your journey, the International Student Group is there to support you. So, if you’re an international student, don’t hesitate to join and experience all the benefits it brings—your new home away from home awaits!

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