Myths and realities of the International Student Experience

MYTHS AND REALITIES OF THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCE

Our international student population comes from over 100 different countries and brings with them unique experiences and perspectives that enrich our campus community and classroom environment.

During this session, we intend to address the following questions through enriched dialogue:

  1. Who are our international students? From visa status to language skills, what are the many nuances behind ‘international’?
  2. How do we learn from our diverse international population?
  3. What role does our campus community play in supporting international student success?

At the end of this session, participants will leave with an understanding of the varied international student experiences with the intention of supporting a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance.

Learning Objectives: 

At the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Recognize the diversity of our international student population
  • Summarize two factors that affect international student success.
  • Reflect on one thing they can do to support the international student experience

Key Themes

  • Leading Change
  • Supporting Students 

Session(s)

April 9, 2019
1:00 - 2:00 pm
STC 0060

 


Presenter(s):

Candace BrownAs the International Student Experience Manager, Candace Brown and her team support the academic and personal success of international students through strategic initiatives. Before joining the University of Waterloo, Candace worked in the College sector in international student affairs and student services. Candace has her MA Education, is a Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant, an Honours BA Business Administration and a Business Management Diploma. As a former international student herself, Candace loves the endless opportunity to engage, support and advocate for the international student experience.

Sacha GeerAs the Manager, International Mobility and Intercultural Learning in the Student Success Office, Sacha Geer and her team support students traveling to and from more than 100 partner schools across the world for exchange, study abroad and summer programs, and is responsible for the Global Experience Certificate program, which assists UW students to become world-ready graduates through recognition of international and cross-cultural experiences and skill development. Sacha holds an MA and PhD in Cultural Anthropology and taught at 3 U15 universities across Canada before joining Waterloo. A first generation Canadian, Sacha is committed to supporting the campus community in developing intercultural skills that help to celebrate all of our diverse experiences.

Contributor

Sandra López-Rocha, PhD
Coordinator, Global Experience Certificate
Student Success Office

Accessibility

The University of Waterloo is committed to providing barrier-free access and equal opportunities to all individuals with disabilities. We strive to create an inclusive environment that is welcoming and supportive of everyone, regardless of their abilities. OHD encourages a scent-free environment in our in-person learning and development events.

If you require any additional accommodations or have any questions about accessibility, please connect with our OHD Events and Programs Coordinator, Krystal Mittler at krystal.mittler@uwaterloo.ca. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in our learning and development event. Please note that certain accommodations may require time to arrange.


The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within our Office of Indigenous Relations