Dean of International Students

Mike Oswald is the Dean of International Students at BYU-I.
He didn't plan on this being his job. "I'm still trying to decide what I want to be when I grow up," said Oswald with a big hearty laugh. He however, did several things throughout his life to prepare him for his position now.

He use to work as an interpreter for Japanese and English.
He studied International Business at the University of Southern California. He then worked at the International Representatives office in Tokyo for the University of Southern California.
He's lived in Japan 3 different times including his mission, for a total of 9 years. He's traveled well across Asia.

He saw the position open up at BYU-I and thought he'd apply. "I'm originally from Idaho so, thought I'd give it a try and come back up here," said Oswald. He got the job and has been here since.

Most of his work is done behind the scenes, he deals a lot with US immigration reporting. He  also is responsible for 400-450 students a semester. He sees anywhere from 1 to 30 students a day, it just depends on the time of the semester. He gets to know some of the students very well. The most rewarding part of his job is watching students grow and develop from when he first meets them all the way until they graduate. Helping students accomplish goals or get through the immigration process and get on the right track.

He sees some of the hardships International students have to go through. The most difficult thing International students have to deal with is learning English and finances, especially if they have a sponsor and they pull out. The International Student office has one party a semester for International students. They also invite different attorneys and agents over the semester to come and speak to students.

"I think the important thing to realize is that they go through great trials and tribulations just to get here to go to school," said Oswald. "They have a much different perspective on the world than Americans do and it is a great opportunity to get to know them and what their hopes and dreams are."