Take 5: Energy Boost

This year, International Educator is bringing back a familiar favorite—our Take 5 column—but with a fresh approach. Each month, we pose a thought-provoking prompt to five members of the NAFSA community. These international educators, who represent a diverse range of voices and perspectives, respond with their insights, recommendations, and personal reflections on the myriad themes and questions that are facing the field.

What’s something in your work that energizes you?

Right now, it's seeing so many of our students participating on behalf of their country at the Olympics!
—Regina George, Princeton University

My energizing cocktail is made up of these three simple ingredients:

1. team collaboration and camaraderie: My teammates have a great sense of humor, and we care about each other. I really enjoy our brainstorming sessions and tackling immigration compliance challenges together.
2. empowering others: Supporting students in their educational journeys and fostering growth within my team gives me a sense of purpose and connection to something greater.
3. knowledge sharing: Preparing and delivering presentations and workshops is my jam. Advocating for students and educating stakeholders fuels my passion and drives my professional satisfaction.

—Dagmara Karnowski, The Pennsylvania State University

Students! In particular, student growth—be it personal, academic, or professional—is rewarding for me. My work is centered on supporting international student success, and I am fortunate to work closely with a group of students who form the core of our international community. Together, we work to incorporate student voices into our cocurricular offerings and create a welcoming and supportive