International Advising

We consider every international student and scholar a valued member of the Union community with unique needs and experiences. The International Advising Office supports students and scholars in F-1 and J-1 status, whether they are at Union for one term or four years.

We provide guidance on maintaining immigration status and complying with U.S. regulations, issue immigration documents and letters – including I-20s, DS-2019s, travel signatures, and employment- and travel-related documentation – and help students and scholars navigate life in the United States. We also connect our international community with campus resources and opportunities to support their success and make the most of their Union experience.

Our Staff

Our staff is here to help you to find your way around the maze of questions and uncertainties surrounding your life at Union and studying in the United States.

For general information questions, including major declaration, on-campus employment and travel as well as information pertaining to CPT, OPT and leave of absence questions, schedule an appointment with Robin Olinsky, PDSO/Head Class Dean or with Heidi Hodges, DSO.

Upon your acceptance to Union, you will receive instructions from the Admissions Office on how to apply for your I-20. You must pay your deposit and your Union email account must be set up in order to complete the application.

The International Advising Office works to provide useful information, but we make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to handouts or websites. Union College does not provide legal advice. Additionally, since legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and laws are constantly changing, nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of an independent, competent counsel or tax professional. Neither Union College nor the International Advising Office is responsible for any errors or omissions contained in these materials, or for the results obtained from the use of this information.

For convenience, we offer you the names of the following Capital District law firms that offer immigration legal services. Ultimately it is up to the individual to research legal counsel, and the decision to engage the legal service of one of these firms is entirely your responsibility. Please carefully review the legal firm’s retainer agreement before executing. A retainer agreement is a legally binding agreement that imposes obligations on you - including payment obligations.

Immigration Law Firms

• Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP (518) 487-7611
• Gafner Law Firm, P.C. (518) 512-9488
• Meyers & Meyers (518) 724-1885

Ultimately, it is up to the individual to research legal counsel and review the retainer agreement or contract before moving forward and hiring an attorney.