History

Thai Student Association (TSA) at Oregon State University was established in 1959 by a small group of Thai students and their leader, Prof. Dr. Sanga Sabhsri, a graduate student in Forestry Department. The major objective was to create unity amongst Thai students. Professor Charles Dailey, a Fulbright scholar at Srinakarintrawirot University, owing to his endeavor to maintain a good relationship with Thailand and its people was asked to be the first advisor of the association. His position as the advisor terminated in 1990, to be succeeded by Professor Jack Bailes.

At present, TSA at OSU consists of approximately 40 student members from several departments. Thanks to the reputation of Oregon State University and its alumni as well as the ways of life, students from different major universities in Thailand have chosen to study at the university.

The majority of the Thai students are working towards their graduate degrees – Master’s Degree or Ph.D. A graduate student might work as a eaching Assistant (TA) or a Research Assistant (RA), in which case he will receive monthly stipends and tuition fees waiver. In addition, students also have the opportunity to work on campus (e.g., in the dining halls, at the bookstore, in the library, in the computer labs, etc).

Relationships among Thai students are amicable and warm. Nevertheless, seniority is always valued by younger Thais. The major activity held each year, in Fall and Spring terms, is "Welcome Party for Newcomers".