International Student Advisory Committee

There are two Chair positions available, one for the graduate committee and one for the undergraduate committee.

Each ISAC Chair will prepare and lead ISAC through conversations on international student services and initiatives for the duration of up to a one-year term.

Remuneration

$70 per meeting + $35 per hour for up to three additional hours per meeting

Time commitment

• Between 10 to a maximum of 15 hours per term, including:
  • Training: One training/ team building session at the beginning of the term, approximately two hours long.
  • Meetings: Approximately two to three meetings per term, each meeting being about two hours long, and
    • Up to three additional hours preparatory time per meeting

Required qualifications

• Must be a current University of Waterloo student who holds a valid study permit* and is able to work in Canada
  • Students must be on an active study, co-op or research term for the duration of their membership in ISAC. 
• Has completed two (2) terms in their program
• Must be able to attend remotely, and when attending the meetings, must have access to:
  • A private area
  • A computer with a camera, and 
  • Reliable internet 
• Able to commit as committee chair for the entire academic year
• Knowledge of international student challenges

*Canadian Citizens who spent most of their lives outside of Canada, recent newcomers (Permanent Residents) and other populations who may identify as having similar experiences to international students may also be considered.

Required skills

• Must demonstrate effective leadership and communication skills
• Strong facilitation skills with demonstrated comfort in politely interjecting and steering the conversation
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Knowledgeable about international student services, with a willingness to learn more
• Experience and comfort with being in front of the camera and public speaking.
• Ability to problem solve and remain calm in stressful situations.
• Ability to engage members through a variety of means, including verbally and in writing.

Preferred qualifications and skills

• Familiarity with productivity software (Microsoft Office) and teleconferencing technology (Microsoft Teams, Zoom)
• Skills or experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Event planning
  • Community organizing and advocacy work
  • Quality improvement, evaluation

Tasks and responsibilities

Before meetings (approximately 1h 30min)

• In consultation with the International Experience team, provide input on the discussion topics presented to the committee.
• Create an agenda and distribute it along with associated documents prior to each scheduled meeting.
• Create a presentation highlighting the topic discussed and including the pre-determined questions for discussion during the meeting.

During meetings (approximately 2h)

• Ensure attendance and meeting minutes are being recorded by assisting a notetaker.
• Ensure the committee functions properly:
  • There is full attendance and participation during meetings, and 
  • All relevant matters are discussed.
• Conduct meetings according to the terms of reference and ensure that matters are dealt with in an orderly, efficient manner.
• Engage in relevant and necessary discussions at meetings to support the International Student Experience team in achieving their goals

After meetings (approximately 1h 30min)

• Finalize meeting notes, by ensuring recommendations are captured, and circulate with committee members and ISE team.
• Where appropriate, follow up on assigned action items.
• Reflect on and provide feedback on the progression and impact of the committee.

End of term summary report (approximately 4h)  

• Contribute to the creation of a summary of themes discussed including highlighting key issues brought forward by ISAC members along with clearly articulated recommendations.  

The ISAC Member will attend and participate in meetings to advise and consult on international student services and initiatives for the duration of up to a one-year term.

Remuneration

$70 per meeting (attendance and participation required)

Time commitment

• Training: One training/ team building session at the beginning of the term, approximately two hours long.
• Meetings: Approximately two to three meetings each term, each meeting being about two hours long.

Definitions

• Attendance: Joining all meetings on time and being present and on camera until the meeting is adjourned.
• Participation: Actively participating in committee discussions and contributing verbally, in writing and/ or by answering polls.

Required qualifications and skills

• Must be a current University of Waterloo student who holds a valid study permit and is authorized to work for the duration of their membership in ISAC.
• Has completed two (2) terms in their program
• Must be able to attend remotely, and when attending the meetings, must have access to
  • A private area
  • A computer with a camera
  • Reliable internet
• Knowledgeable about international student services, with a willingness to learn more
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

*Canadian Citizens and spent most of their lives outside of Canada, recent newcomers (Permanent Residents) and other populations who may identify as having similar experiences to international students may also be considered.

Preferred qualifications and skills

• Skills or experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Event planning
  • Public speaking
  • Community organizing and advocacy work
  • Quality improvement, evaluation
• Strong time management skills
• Knowledge of international student challenges

Tasks and responsibilities

• Punctuality and preparedness are vital, ensure timely arrival with necessary materials for scheduled meetings.
  • Thoroughly review the agenda and relevant documents in advance of meetings, 
• Actively participate and contribute to committee discussions
  • Attendance alone does not constitute participation; it is important to actively engage in the committee's activities
  • Committee members are expected to contribute their perspectives, ideas, and experiences during meetings to enhance the quality of discussions.
  • Participation involves engaging in constructive dialogue, providing valuable input, and actively listening to other members' viewpoints.
• May be assigned the responsibility of documenting meeting notes and tracking attendance.
• Collaborate with fellow students at the University of Waterloo to gather feedback and insights on existing or potential international student services or initiatives.
• Reflect on the committee's progress and impact and provide constructive feedback accordingly.