What are the International Student Advisory Committees (ISAC)?
The Undergraduate International Student Advisory Committee (ISAC-UG) and the Graduate International Student Advisory Committee (ISAC-G) are student working groups consisting of international students who provide advice and feedback on the international student experience at the University of Waterloo.
Applications for membership for ISAC-G are now being accepted.
Applications for membership for ISAC-UG are now closed.
What does ISAC do?
Both committees enhance the experiences of international students by providing feedback and recommendations to the International Student Experience (ISE) team in the Student Success Office. They advise on programs, services and support in the development of new initiatives.
Through conversation-based meetings that occur two to three times per term, ISAC-UG and ISAC-G capture the student voice by advising ISE on strategic direction, services, and programming. They work to identify gaps and opportunities in current supports and services, and may collaborate with other departmental units and student organizations at Waterloo when needed.
General eligibility criteria
ISAC-UG is open to international undergraduate students and ISAC-G is open to international graduate students, who hold a valid study permit. Consideration will be given to students who are Canadian Citizens that have 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.
Commitment
As an ISAC member you would be expected to:
- Participate for a minimum of one year (three terms); with the opportunity to be reappointed for up to one additional year.
- Attend virtual meetings of approximately two hours, three times per term, with additional meetings as required.
- Perform tasks assigned.
Duration of meetings
Meetings are approximately two hours in length, using the following format:
- 30 minutes – introduction to topic (e.g., ISE program overview by ISE staff)
- One hour – discussion
- 30 minutes – open forum conversations (i.e., opportunity for members to share relevant challenges they've experienced or gaps they've identified)
Group responsibilities
The responsibilities of the committee are to:
- Provide advice to the International Student Experience team regarding existing international student programs, supports and services.
- Assist with identifying new programs, services, supports and other initiatives.
- Advise on and recommend improvements to international student experience services and programs.
- Provide a central forum for the discussion and sharing of information and ideas on matters relating to the international student experience.
- Review international student experience strategies and provide recommendations on future direction and areas of development.
- Members may be called upon to support other varying initiatives specific to the international student experience including representing international students in other forums.
Benefits of membership
As an active member of the advisory group, you will:
- enhance your communication, leadership and community building skills
- advocate for positive changes on your campus
- gain valuable experience in a committee setting
- build relationships with university staff and other students who are passionate about enhancing students’ experience
ISAC roles
There are two role opportunities available on the ISAC:
ISAC Chair
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 University of Waterloo student who holds a valid study permit* and is able to work in Canada
- 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 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.
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.
ISAC member
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, approximatelt 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 University of Waterloo student who holds a valid study permit- * and is able to work in Canada
- 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 agend 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 gether 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.
Application process
Prior committee experience is not required. To apply, fill out the online application form, including submitting a package consisting of a cover letter and resume.
Applications received without a cover letter will not be considered.
Equity statement
The University of Waterloo respects, appreciates, and encourages diversity. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, ethnic origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, ability, or disability.
For questions regarding the International Student Advisory Committee please email ise@uwaterloo.ca.
