Inside Study Abroad

VIDEO: Interview with Michelle Kern - Japanophile and International Internship Maven

2012-02-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Waaaay back in May 2011 I did a bunch of interviews with some ridiculously interesting international educators and other world travel superfans. And I'm finally (woot woot!) getting around to editing and posting them. Today I feature Michelle Kern, a Japanophile through and through with considerable experience studying abroad and learning the language in the land of the rising sun. At the time of this interview, Michelle was serving as the Program Manager for the MIT-Japan program which administers research, study, and internship opportunities in Japan for MIT students. Pretty cool. However, back in December, Michelle took on a new position back in her home town of Madison, Wisconsin. She's now Assistant Director of the International Internship Program at UW-Madison. (Go Badgers!)

Here's a quick run down of what Michelle and I chatted about:

Michelle graduate in May from Lesley University's master's degree in intercultural relations. What are the best and worst things about the program? Best: It's a great program for diversification as it doesn't pigeon hole you into higher education. You can also learn skills and theory related to intercultural training and development that can be used in the non-profit and corporate worlds. Sweet! Worst: All students are required to take a two semester cultural exploration course. Not a bad thing in and of itself, but...it requires students to study a local culture in depth and conduct considerable research. For Michelle, her topic had nothing to do with her own professional goals or personal research interests. (Regardless, she was able to parlay an independent study opportunity to do her own research on a topic she loved.)

One of the many interesting things about Michelle is that she didn't start her career working in study abroad. She actually worked in the corporate world before transitioning to a position in higher ed.

As a bonafide Japan expert, here are three tips she has for any student (or traveler) planning to journey to Japan:
1. Study and learn the language as much as you can before you go.
2. Budget time and money for traveling around Japan - lots to see even in such a small space.
3. Consider places/programs that aren't in the typical cities most people have heard of. Get off the beaten path.

Beyond Japanese language and culture, Michelle also knows her stuff when it comes to international internships. Her number one piece of advice for students ready to take the international internship leap: prepare to be shocked. Not only will there be technical business skills to learn and observe, but students will also have to navigate the cultural layer of the experience. The work experience in most countries is dramatically different from the US due to cultural differences in hierarchy, communication, and expectations. But, hey, that's what makes the experience! It's not SUPPOSED to be like the US!

Be sure to check out the MIT-Japan program (where Michelle previously worked) and Michelle's newest gig at UW-Madison in the International Internship Program. And connect with her on twitter @mlkern and on LinkedIn.

Great talking with you Michelle!

Anyone headed to (or already in) DC for the AIEA conference? Are you tweeting about it? Let us know in the comments right below. :) Happy President's Day everyone!

Study Abroad Advisors - You Think You Know But You Have No Idea

2012-02-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

I receive emails every day from aspiring study abroad professionals asking me for advice on how to get into the international education field. These are people who have typically studied abroad before, loved it, went off and did some kind of work in (insert almost any country name here), and now want to "keep the experience alive" by working in study abroad. More often than not, I first have to do a lot of coaching and explaining on what it actually means to work in education abroad, because phrases like these pop up a lot when someone is explaining why they want a gig as a study abroad pro:

"I've always thought it would be cool to travel for my job."
"I'm really skilled at booking travel online and know all the secrets."
"The chance to travel with students and show them how amazing the world is...well that would be awesome!"
"It seems like a pretty laid-back job which would allow me to travel a lot."
"I'll get paid to travel! Amazing!"
"I country hopped during my entire semester abroad and could really provide MUCH BETTER advice on cheap travel to students than my advisor told me."
"I just love travel."
"I just love studying abroad."

You can sense a theme, right? Don't get me wrong. Not every person that writes to me says things like this and frankly, I don't fault the ones that do. Understanding study abroad as a professional is more complicated than most would believe and takes time and education to get to know it. Heck! I'm still working on it every day - currently reading a history of education abroad (because I'm basically a study abroad nerd).

Anyway, I digress. In response to the emails I get every day, I'm working on a post that's all about what it's really like working as a study abroad advisor (coming soon!), but for now, I thought I'd take a turn at one of those profession memes that have been circulating the web: Study Abroad Advisors. It's definitely a tongue-in-cheek look at what it means to be a study abroad advisor, but I'm guessing it will hit home for a lot of people. We'll see...There are a bunch of these, but here's one of my favorites for the IT peeps out there.

What do you think? Agree? Disagree? Funny? Shocking? Let me know!

Oh yeah! And happy Valentine's Day!

VIDEO: Interview with Zac Macinnes of ISA-International Studies Abroad

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness gracious. This post has been about eight months in the making. Waaaay back in May 2011 I interviewed Zac Macinnes and I'm only now getting around to editing and posting it. Shame on me! But surely, SURELY better than late than never. Right? I owe Zac a very large....coffee?....when I see him.

Regardless of my tardiness on posting this internview, the stories and advice Zac gives are timeless.

And if you can't watch the video because you're at work (I won't tell if you don't!), here's a brief synopsis of what we chatted about.

Zac is a the Northeast regional rep for ISA: International Studies Abroad, as well as their social media manager. Like me, Zac ventured from the Midwest (he grew up in Austin) to attend college in Boston (love that city!) at Emmanuel College. While at Emmanuel, he started his global journeys on a summer study abroad program in Mexico. From there he was hooked and spent another summer in Spain and an entire year in Peru (all during college!). What I found really interesting is that Zac did an internship with his study abroad office at Emmanuel where he was able to meet a lot of regional reps and people in the study abroad field. From there he was able to parlay that network and experience into a full-time job with ISA as a regional rep himself. (I know a lot of you are looking for ways to break into the professional world of study abroad. Take a cue from Zac. Get an internship first. You can find several other tips on getting a job in study abroad here.)

Zac's key advice for people looking to start a career in international education? "Network like a fool!" Put yourself out there, be outgoing, start conversations with people you don't know...and eventually something will come along through someone you've made a connection with through your networking.

When it comes to social media, Zac's tips to anyone looking to get started in social media: 1) Start small with Facebook...and 2) make a plan and stick to it (oops! I'm clearly failing at this one!). Definitely follow Zac's advice (and don't blog like me...i.e. sporadically).

You can connect with Zac on twitter at @zacmaccines and @zacISAabroad. You can also creep him on Facebook. Thanks Zac! You were totally worth the wait!

Psst...Interested in being interviewed on Inside Study Abroad? Sweet! Shoot me an email at brooke[at]insidestudyabroad.com. :)

Study Abroad Job: India Resident Director, Alliance for Global Education

2012-01-11T17:08:00.001-07:00

The sites. The smells. The tastes. The sounds. You can't go to India without all of your senses being overcome with most wonderful and terrible stimulation imaginable. It's a world of dichotomies of the beautiful, the grotesque, the rich, the poor, the ancient, and the modern. And now's your chance to help guide students through THE experience that is India!

The Alliance for Global Education (one of the coolest orgs in study abroad, if you ask me) is hiring a Resident Director for their India programs. Granted, you need to have at least two years previous experience working/living in India and additional years experience working in general, but for those who qualify, this will be a great opportunity to work in study abroad facilitating learning experiences on the ground. And did I mention that you get to live in India? Sign me up!

Click the link to learn more about the Resident Director position in India!

Competing Against the World: How to Successfully Study Abroad as a College Athlete

2011-12-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today I bring you a guest post from a former study abroad student (and student athlete), Nate Schrader.

Nate Schrader, Wabash College, Class of 2010

As a Division III college baseball player at Wabash College, Nate had the audacity to consider studying abroad, seemingly unheard of on most college campuses. However, with planning, a supportive coach/team, and some creativity, he was able to make his study abroad goals a reality...and make it to the playoffs too. Here's his story and advice for other college athletes ready to take on the world on and off the field.

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“Well,” he said reluctantly, “I guess it is a great opportunity for you. You’ll have to earn your spot. We’ll see you when you get back.”

I couldn’t believe it - my baseball coach actually letting me go abroad! Thoughts of Rome and Italian food and architecture filled my thoughts until reality set in. Where will I work out? How will I stay motivated? How will I experience culture if I have to work out? Can I still be a leader on the team when I’m not with them? The doubts went on and on.

If you’re like me, you need a plan with some answers (somewhat). Hopefully the following tips will encourage you to study abroad and make your trip more worthwhile and encourage you to study abroad. My advice? A steady combo of discipline, culture, and a little creativity.

Find Others in the Same Boat
It’s much easier to find a place to work out and stick to it when you have other people to train with. Ask your program if there’s a discount gym membership, find some friends, and push each other!

Keep in Contact
Separation from the team hurts that team chemistry all coaches love. Make an effort to email and chat your teammates on their off-season progress. Stories of talented freshmen, improving players, and team success motivated me and can help you push through those last few weeks.

Make it Cultural!
Don’t seclude your athletic training from your abroad experience, celebrate it! There are a few great ways to do this. Find local athletes and play against them. With the help of my program, I managed to find some Italian friends and played softball in a park. Not only did I play, but I taught them about the game and learned how they approached baseball. That cultural bonding over the game I love was irreplaceable.

Playing catcher in the local park with some Italian friends.

Make Your Workouts Work for You
Dream up a way to use your workouts as something more. My anthropology class required a research paper, and what do you think I chose? Contrasting Italian & American gym culture, of course! Perhaps that’s another blog in itself, but overall it pushed me to chat with Italians and learn their culture more.

Weightroom and spinning/aerobics room at Center Line gym, on of three gyms where I would sweat it out with Italians.

Get Creative With Your Workouts
Treadmills? Boring. Gyms? Stuffy and cramped. Why not explore cities while you run? I count the nighttime mad dash from Piazzale Michelangelo with three friends as a top five European moment hands down. You see more places, get that workout in, and maybe escape a Motorini or two along the way!

The view atop Piazzale before our night time sprint to the bottom.

Return a Better Athlete
Returning with a positive attitude is crucial to your season’s success. Expect to shake off the rust, but know it comes quickly. Remember the experiences abroad are something untradeable in America. I ended up with a great junior season, and our team made the playoffs.

Would I do it again? Absolutely.

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After studying in Rome and playing baseball at Wabash College, Nate Schrader uses his experiences to write for TravelProducts.com about anything to help you get the most out of your travels.

Big props to the Wabash College study abroad office for supporting Nate! Do you have a study abroad student athlete success story? Tell us about it in the comments!

GoAbroad is Hiring!

2011-07-04T23:52:00.001-06:00

Happy Independence Day to everyone in the US of A! I'm happily tucked in to a plate of rice, peppers, and chicken in the Philippines. Everyone here says hello. :)

A many of you know, I work for GoAbroad.com, the web's leading resource for meaningful travel (sorry, shameless plug!). We've recently launched GoMedia, a new suite of services focused on providing online marketing and data management services and solutions to the international education community.

We've had a great reception so far since launching at NAFSA. Now I'm on the look out for an innovative, driven, and really really (really!) smart person to join the GoAbroad team as our GoMedia Manager. You can check out the full job description online. Let me know why you would be a great fit for THIS position and how you will be a GoMedia rock star!

VIDEO: Blast from the Past!

2011-06-17T14:49:00.001-06:00

Hi everyone! I know I'm way behind on uploading interviews (I have four in the hopper! Zac - Yours is coming next week. I promise!) and other information-based posts, but it's been a crazy three weeks with being at NAFSA, recovering from NAFSA, and then of course, following-up from NAFSA.

But I recently got my hands on a little blast from the past video I created when I was a grad student and working in the Baldwin-Wallace College Explorations/Study Abroad Center. It's amazing how digital photography has improved in just five years, so forgive the pixelated images. And please don't heckle me too much on the...eh em...dramatic nature of the music. But my former supervisor and dear friend, and current Director of Study Abroad at BW, says the video is a huge hit on campus. She shows it at all new student orientations and College 101 first-year courses in the fall. This summer, they are having a new video created, so I wanted to share this one with the world before it goes in to the archives.

Since we used some old school video editing stuff to create the video, the only format we have of it is a DVD. As a result, I had to rip the DVD to make a YouTube-ready version, which means there's a watermark for the software I used. Sigh. I could have spent $60 bucks on the program to get the watermark removed, but let's face it: I'm ~~cheap~~ thrifty.

Do you guys know of any cool study abroad recruitment videos? Share the links in the comments and I'll feature them from time to time!

VIDEO: Interview with Mandy Reinig of Penn State University-Altoona

2011-05-26T07:00:00.008-06:00

Today I'm talking with Mandy Reinig, the one and only study abroad advisor at Penn State-Altoona. Along with running a one person study abroad office, she's an avid tweeter and study abroad advocate. You may know her as the Education Abroad Network Leader for NAFSA or from her various conference presentations on social media. Recently, Mandy launched her own social media consultancy called Mandy's Mashups. I first met Mandy though twitter - gotta love social media - where she tweets as @PSUaaAbroad and as @MandysMashups. Can't wait to meet her in person at NAFSA in Vancouver!

Thanks so much for joining me, Mandy!

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Are you a study abroad super fan and want to drink coffee (or tea) with me over skype while talking about all things study abroad? Let me know! Would love to chat with you. :) Email me at brooke{at}insidestudyabroad.com.

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Next week I'll be joining a TON of international educators at the annual holy-moley-this-is-a-lot-of-people NAFSA conference in Vancouver. The hometown Canucks (hockey for those of you who don't know) have advanced to the Stanley Cup finals which should really add to energy of NAFSA.

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Because We All Started Somewhere: My Testimony for Joplin, Missouri

2011-05-25T12:53:00.000-06:00

You'll have to forgive the personal nature of this post. But as we all know, the intersection of our professional and personal worlds is often murky. So here is my study abroad story and testimony for Joplin, MO.

What I don't say in the video is that Joplin is about an hour from where I grew up in Kansas. Because my dad lived and worked in Joplin most of my life, I've spent a considerable amount of my own life there. In fact, my grandma still lives there (though her house is severely damaged from the tornado). Joplin, for all intensive purposes, is home and it's where my study abroad story began.

Thanks for watching. Information on how to donate money, items, and time below.

Here's a list of relief efforts happening online and a list of ways to donate your money, household items, and time from USA Today for the victims of the Joplin, Missouri, tornado.

Here's the video of the Joplin Mayor with Anderson Cooper.

And if you're interested in learning more about MSSU, here are some helpful links:
Missouri Southern State University, their international mission, great study abroad programs, and a special shout out to Chad Stebbins, Direct of International Studies, for allowing a naive freshman like me to study abroad.

You changed my life.

How to Get A Job in Study Abroad WITHOUT a Master's Degree

2011-05-23T07:00:00.133-06:00

Last week I wrote about the top graduate programs for a career in study abroad. But let's pretend for a moment that you aren't interested in getting a Master's degree (at least not yet), but you still want to work in study abroad. Have no fear. There is hope. But as with everything in life, you're going to have to accept some trade offs. Rarely will you have your cake and, well, you know, eat it too. This post is not about how to become a study abroad office director without having to work your way through the trenches or earn a little street cred. It's about how to get in the door and work your way up.

Now, I just have one caveat. Everything I'm about to say will do very little for you if you have no previous study abroad experience. I mean it. If your only previous travel experience involves a tour of Paris, a brief visit to Rome, and a cruise through the Caribbean, you're going to have a hard time getting anyone - universities or providers - to take you seriously. Which leads me to my first tip….

Get More International & Language Experience
If you've graduate from college and having trouble finding a job in study abroad, consider investing a year in boosting your skills and experience by teaching English abroad and focus on language acquisition while you're there. Even after I finished grad school AND had two years experience as a study abroad advisor, I was still struggling to find a study abroad job (and that was BEFORE the economic melt down). After weighing my options, I decided that my European-focused study abroad and research experience wasn't going to cut it. I needed some geographic diversity and knowledge on my resume. So I applied to a program to teach English in China for a year. Best decision of my life! Not only did I end up discovering a culture and country that I adored, but I leveraged my study abroad knowledge to create workshops for my Chinese college students on how to study abroad (short term and degree-seeking). All great content for my resume. When I started applying for jobs from China, hiring managers were MUCH more interested in me due to my diverse experience, new language knowledge, and my demonstrated ability to take initiative. [Though sadly any Mandarin I learned has slowly gone out the window. Use it or lose it, kids!]

Look for Study Abroad Assistant Positions
I know of a lot of large study abroad offices that have study abroad assistant positions that are pretty low on the totem pole, but that incorporate that coveted study abroad office experience. These positions typically focus on in-take advising before the student is handed off to a Study Abroad Advisor. They also do a lot of scheduling, office manager tasks, and answering the phone. However, if you've only ever been a student or student worker on a college campus, getting even a low level position in a study abroad office will help you understand the challenges, triumphs, and bureaucracy of higher education that much more.

Become A Study Abroad Road Warrior
Most people I talk to really want to work in a study abroad office at a university and that's great. I love working on a university campus (most of the time). But if you don't have a Master's and you really want to work in study abroad, try starting out as a field rep for a study abroad program provider. Why I love these types of jobs? NETWORKING! Not only will you gain an incredible amount of knowledge about academic concerns, financial aid policies, health and safety issues by answering thousands of questions about these topics, but you'll also meet an incredible number of study abroad administrators through campus visits, fairs, and conferences. You'll be able to show your passion and knowledge of the field to a lot of hiring managers…and that ain't bad. Some of these jobs are commission-based, some aren't. Some of these jobs come with low salaries but other perks like international travel. As with everything, you have to determine what you're willing to sacrifice in one area (i.e. salary) to avoid another area (i.e. getting a graduate degree). Which leads me to...

Work for a Study Abroad Company
I've worked at universities and for private (non-profit and for-profit) study abroad companies. And let me tell you that both experiences can suck at times and can be amazing at times. But an added bonus of working for a study abroad company is that entry-level positions typically do not require a Master's degree. Depending on the size and scope of the company, you can work in academic advising, student pre-departure services, program development, financial aid advising, and many other areas. The great thing about these types of positions is the sheer volume of students you will interact with and advise. After a year or two in one of these positions, you'll have heard it ALL and be able to talk about that valuable experience during future job searches. Another benefit of working for a provider - beyond the number of students and the networking (listed above) - is how much you'll learn about how study abroad is administrated at universities across the country. And believe me, no two universities do it the same. Sure there are some baseline standards, but at the end of the day, how one university determines if a study abroad experience is credible can be dramatically different than how another university decides. It can be both enlightening and frustrating, but either way, you're going to have a lot of great knowledge to carry over to your next gig.

Be Unique/Interesting/Passionate/Funny/SOMETHING!
You have no idea how many resumes and cover letters I've read that 1) don't tell me why the person is a PERFECT fit for the job they are applying for and/or 2) bore me to pieces without showing me any of the applicant's unique character and passion. [And if you've failed to do both of those things…well, that's a pretty big problem.] Now, study abroad is a relatively conservative field when it comes to job applications. We've all filled out the same human resources online application forms that go on for pages and pages, and right before you hit submit there's an error of some kind and you have to start all over. Ack! Hate it when that happens! But if you want to stand out in this crowded job market, do something to catch our attention. Start with superior application materials. Your resume and cover letter better be AMAZING and specifically demonstrate why you are going to rock it in this position! Then do something unique: create an online portfolio, create a video application, start your own blog about study abroad, write guest blog articles for me (seriously, do it!), but do something, ANYTHING professional that will get you noticed and remembered. Not sure where to begin? Here's a great article from Mashable about social media resumes. Granted these people are trying to get jobs in social media, but you can take these examples and apply them to the study abroad context. Be creative and show any hiring manager who you are and why you'd be a perfect fit!

Note: I hope it goes without saying, but please, please, please for the love of all things study abroad, tailor each and every application, resume, and cover letter for the specific company/university/position you're applying to. There's nothing more insulting to a hiring committee to see that the applicant couldn't be bothered to spend an hour tailoring the content to them. If you want them to seriously consider you, make sure you've shown them that you're serious.

Demonstrate Your Academic Street Cred
The main reason that Master's degrees are often required or preferred for study abroad jobs is simple: study abroad is, at its core, an academic experience. And in higher education there's almost nothing more sacred than how academic credit is evaluated and distributed. (Okay, maybe faculty academic freedom and tenure are more sacred…but you get the idea.) That's why it's so important that study abroad administrators have a strong foundation in understanding the academic experience…which can often come from having a master's degree. BUT, if you don't have those elusive letters behind your name, have no fear. I bet you've still got a little academic mojo to share. When you apply for jobs be sure to highlight your high-brow academic experiences. Did you conduct original research as an undergrad? Complete an honors thesis? Better yet, was that research presented at academic conferences and submitted/accepted to academic journals? Did you work on a credit transfer research project for your study abroad office? Did you conduct field research on the ground when you studied abroad? Did you serve as the student liaison for your institution's re-accreditation process? Did you co-teach lower division courses at your university or tutor in the writing/math labs? Whatever it is, be sure to highlight your academic prowess. Universities and providers want to know you can differentiate between studying abroad in Florence and being a cast member of Jersey Shore in Florence.

Volunteer with a Study Abroad Company or Office
Okay, I know that this option isn't ideal. Hell…it's terrible. BUT if you really want to break into this field, you might have to make some sacrifices…and this might be it. The key to this approach is to do project based work. Maybe the study abroad office wants to move to an online pre-departure orientation format? Tell them you'll do it! Maybe they need to put together a faculty-led program policy manual? Offer to put together a first draft. Whatever the project is, make sure it has a clear start and end and that you put together some real deliverables and objectives for the volunteer position. And since you'll probably need to keep working a paid job while you volunteer, try to get projects that you can work on from home. At the same time, be sure to etch out a few hours a week when you can be in the office helping with other projects, drop-in advising, random logistical duties (copies and coffee runs!), and to get to know your colleagues.

Take a Temporary Position
This is a tough one. But if you are a bit of a risk taker, determined, and confident you can make a noticeable impact in a short period of time, this may be a great option for you. There are a lot of study abroad programs that require a temporary on-site administrator/coordinator to help manage the pre-departure and onsite experience. A few I can think of are: World Learning-Experiment in International Living, Babson-BRIC, Semester At Sea, and NortheasternUniversity NUin Freshman Programs. These semester-long positions are temporary, but may give you just enough experience to get you noticed and land you an interview.

Be Diligent But Not a Pest
You wouldn't believe the number of people who have asked me for advice on getting a job in study abroad who never, EVER follow-up on their job applications. They just send their resumes, cover letters, and references out into the interwebs and cross their fingers that they'll get a call. Big mistake. If you want to be taken seriously, show them that you're serious about the position. While I'm not advocating that you call and write the study abroad office or hiring manager every day, I AM suggesting that you follow-up on all applications you send out to 1) confirm it was received, 2) Check on the status of the hiring process, and 3) Check AGAIN on the status. You never know what is happening on the "inside" and why you're considered for a position or not. But it never hurts to follow-up. It won't work every time, but it may get you noticed.

Here's a personal example, when I was teaching in China and applying for jobs back in the States, I had sent out more than 100 applications (I'm not joking). One of my applications was for a position with EUSA-International Academic Internship Programs as a University Relations Manager. I poured over my resume and cover letter, tailoring every word to that position. I had followed the application instructions perfectly. I had highlighted my travel blog about China for a little added flair. I thought for sure I was getting an interview. If I could, this is where I'd insert the sound of crickets chirping. I didn't hear anything. Nothing. Several weeks went passed and I hadn't received a confirmation email, rejection email, anything. [And this was the case for a LOT of jobs I applied for.] So I worked up the nerve to email the hiring manager and confirm that she received my application (and attached the original email). She was so happy that I followed up because my original email had gone to her junk mail folder. She interviewed me over the phone a few days later. My tenure in China ended and I flew back to the US a few days after that and interviewed in person for the position in Boston….and a week later, I had a job offer. :) I'll say it again: It never hurts to follow up.

Take What You Can Get
I know it may not seem fair and I know it's frustrating, demoralizing, and down right crappy, but in this economy, in this job market, and without the academic credentials that most jobs prefer or require, you can't afford to be picky. As with almost any career in almost any field, you may have to put in a couple of years in a job that, in your mind, is beneath you. Manage your own expectations on this one. Loving study abroad isn't enough. A lot of us love study abroad. You have to gain the skills and experience associated with working in study abroad. After all, if your car breaks down and needs to be fixed, would you choose a mechanic with specific training in all things automobile and a few years of experience OR the guy who just really, really likes cars and hopes to be a mechanic some day - who would YOU pick? The point is that the competition is fierce and you've got to be ready to "pay your dues" for a bit.

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By no means can I guarantee that these tips will work for everyone. But if you take a few of these tips and carefully strategize and craft your personal and professional brand, I have no doubt you'll get a few interviews. And from there, it's all on you to demonstrate why you're awesome.

If you have other suggestions on how to get a job in study abroad WITHOUT a Master's degree, please leave them in the comments. And of course, if you disagree with anything I've outlined above, I want to hear that, too.

Good luck and happy job searching!

Image found here.

VIDEO: Interview with Tiffany Harrison of What Would Jane Do

2011-05-19T06:00:00.003-06:00

Last Saturday morning I enjoyed a cup of coffee (yes, I drink Starbucks) and a great interview with Tiffany Harrison, a recent grad, burgeoning PR pro, and study abroad super fan (she studied abroad for a year in Scotland with USAC). We discussed the benefits of study abroad for PR majors, advice Tiffany has for future study abroad students, and her future career plans. Check out her blog What Would Jane Do where she muses about her love of tea, all things Jane Austen, and making your way as a young/fun professional woman.

I first met Tiffany on Twitter where she's known as a friendly, fun personality tweeting about everything from study abroad, tea (of course), and public relations. As a true study abroad super fan, Tiffany is also interested in starting a career in study abroad (for a university or a provider) where she can utilize her PR and social media skills along with her knowledge of the study abroad process. In her own words she's:

Passionate about study abroad
Natural leader
Great communicator

And I'd agree with all three! Be sure to check her out on her blog and on LinkedIn. She's definitely got my recommendation!

Best of luck Tiffany, and thanks so much for chatting with me on a Saturday!

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If you're a public relations major reading this and thinking about study abroad, check out these great study abroad programs for Communications/PR students.

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And yes, I can just hear my mother's voice telling me to sit up straight in this video. I'll work on that. :)

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I want to thank everyone for the wonderful support of my post about the Top Graduate Programs for a Career in Study Abroad. The response has been amazing! And a big thanks to everyone who left a comment and even added to the list of programs. If you've emailed me since Monday with questions, I'm so sorry for the delay and I'll try to get out responses in the next week.

Master's Required - Top Graduate Programs for a Career in Study Abroad

2011-05-16T07:00:00.003-06:00

If you look at just about any study abroad job posting, you'll see one very common phrase: Master's Required. While there are ways to get a study abroad job WITHOUT a Master's degree (I'll write about that next week), here I suggest seven-plus graduate programs that are sure to launch your career in study abroad.

Brooke & Friends at the BGSU '06 Graduate Commencement

Profile of You

So, let me guess. This is you:

You majored in something related to the international world (international relations, international affairs, international business, anthropology, languages, etc.).
You studied abroad in college (maybe even 2 or 3 times).
You double majored or minored in a language (and you list those language skills on your resume)
You volunteered as a peer advisor in your university's study abroad office.
You received glowing recommendations from the study abroad director at your school on your work in the office.
You talk about study abroad to (nearly) every person you meet - clearly you're passionate about it.
And now, you want to work in study abroad - making the dream of study abroad come true for future college students.

Looks great on paper, right? You'd think this person would be a shoo-in for a job as a study abroad advisor at ANY college, university, or program provider. But sadly, this person has a very small chance of landing one of those jobs and here's why: Master's Required.

Why Do You Need a Master's Anyway?

The sad truth of the study abroad field is that for most entry-level jobs these days you need a Master's degree to get in the door (and sometimes that's not even enough). Where did this - some would argue - over inflated requirement come from? I'm not sure. But my personal opinion is that there's a little-talked-about pressure in the higher education world for administrators to match or try to match the academic credentials of faculty. Instead of relying on an applicant's experience and knowledge of the industry (because let's face it, that's what study abroad is), in academia we tend to give a little more weight to academic achievements. Some will argue that these (experience and academic credentials) go hand in hand, but in my experience and the experience I've seen of others, the MA, MS, M.Ed., etc are a vital step to starting your career in study abroad.

Graduate Programs for Future Study Abroad Professionals

Okay, so let's pretend that there's absolutely NO WAY you can get a job in study abroad without a Master's. [There are ways to get a job without a Master's. I'm writing about that next week.] But for now just play along. Now, the challenge is selecting a program that will help you land that first dream job in study abroad. Below I profile some of the best (in my opinion) master's programs that will help you get a great job in study abroad. The list is not exhaustive and others may strongly disagree (leave a comment if you do, please!), but I don't think you can go wrong with these options (in alphabetical order):

American University (D.C.)
International Training and Education MA
Why It's Awesome: This program focuses on how education can be an instrument of international development and cross-cultural understanding. One of the best bits is that they focus on practical application of theoretical concepts, so after this two-year program you should walk away with some pretty interesting knowledge AND some solid experience under your belt. Oh. And did I mention you'd get to live in D.C.? 'Nuff said.

What's the Catch: With budgets in higher education being cut dramatically over the past few years, the number of scholarships and graduate assistantship available may be decreasing (not sure). A great question to ask the admissions office: How many people in each class receive a scholarship; how many receive an assistantship. This will help you gauge your chances of receiving one.

Bowling Green State University
Higher Education and Student Affairs MA
Disclaimer: I'm going to talk about my alma mater now. Yes, I'm biased, but it's my blog AND BGSU happens to be a great program/experience so it's a win win. I get to be biased and you still get a pretty decent program recommendation.

Why It's Awesome: What I like most about this program (and similar programs at Loyola University in Chicago and Miami University in Ohio), is that you get to learn about the entire higher education experience from administrative issues, student development, the history of education, student learning, and more. My mantra has always been that study abroad is an extremely important, but small part of the college experience. You have to understand the bigger picture, in my opinion, before you can understand how study abroad can/will impact a student. Okay. Stepping off soap box now. Another great benefit to this program is that you HAVE to do a graduate assistantship to be in the program. No exceptions. This means you'll get two years experience working in higher education by the time you graduate. Score! You can also take classes that focus on international education.

What's the Catch: Well, if you know you want to work in study abroad, getting a grad assistantship in a study abroad office is going to be difficult. Assistantships are already competitive even before you start narrowing it down be department. I was lucky enough to land a GAship at Baldwin-Wallace College in their Explorations/Study Abroad Center. [Though I was their second choice. Feel free to heckle Christie, the Director, about that one. ;)]. Two of the most influential years of my life. No joke.

Edge Hill University (England)

Management of International Higher Education MA

[This is a blog about study abroad. I had to throw in an international option.]
Why It's Awesome: You get to live in England. The program is only one year, like most master's degree programs in the UK and Europe. The courses/modules sound extremely interesting, but sadly, it's a new program so I don't know anyone personally who has gone through the program. But it sure does look great on ~~paper~~ the internet.

What's the Catch: Well, if you're an non-UK or non-EU citizen reading this, that means Edge Hill will look at you as an international student, therefore, the fees are a bit high. So start saving your pennies. And because this program is very new (I believe it launched in fall of 2009 or 2010), it's relatively untested. But hey, if you're the adventurous type, go be our guinea pig and and report back. I want to hear all about it.

Kent State University (Ohio)

Higher Education Administration M.Ed. [Certificate in Internationalization of Higher Education]
Why It's Awesome: You get the best of both worlds: I broader understanding of higher education with a specialization in international education. You can't go wrong. Also, you'll be working (through your grad assistantship) on a traditional college campus. It doesn't get much more standard than KSU. And the school is rich in history specifically related to higher education.

What's the Catch: Well, Kent, Ohio, isn't the most exciting place you could live for two years, but what you'll get from the program and the specialization in international education is totally worth it. Also, like BGSU, getting a graduate assistantship specifically in study abroad will be challenging.

Lesley University (Massachusetts)
Intercultural Relations MA
Why It's Awesome: I used to live in Boston/Cambridge where Lesley is located. In fact, I used to live around the corner from the building where most of the graduate classes are taught. Oh wait. Is that not reason enough to apply? Fine. Here's more. Lesley has several tracks and enrollment options (like low residency) to fit a lot of needs. And like SIT (below), they've become one of the "go to" programs for people already in the field and people eager to break in to the field. Just reading through the course titles gets me excited. And I love, love, love that they have a language requirement.

What's the Catch: Lesley isn't exactly a traditional college experience. The small residential campus that primarily serves undergrads is several blocks away from the graduate school. But since most people in the program are currently working in international ed in some capacity, it's not a big deal for them. But if you're a newbie, with no study abroad job currently, this could be a bummer. Or maybe not. Everyone has to do an internship as a degree requirement, so you can get your fill of practical application through that. I came really close to going to Lesley, but at that time, they didn't have much by way of scholarships/grants. That may all be different now.

SIT Graduate Institute (Vermont)

International Education MA (and others)

Why It's Awesome: SIT has basically become a feeder school for international education, especially among study abroad professionals in the Northeast. They have even more degree options, tracks, and concentrations than UofM (below) - even a low residency option. But one of the best parts of SIT's programs is that most are just one calendar year which typically includes a practical field experience. To give you an idea of the field experience you could have, when I worked for Semester at Sea, there was a woman working along side me on the ship who was using the experience as her practical requirement. Darn the luck, aye?

What's the Catch: One of the downsides of SITs program (at least from where I sit), is that since you won't be studying at a more traditional college or university (similar to the Lesley situation), you won't get to see/learn about the college experience and how study abroad fits into it - or how traditional study abroad offices function. However, you could do your practical experience at a more traditional campus and BOOM, you're good.

Fun fact: It seems that either: 1) every SIT grad I know was in the Peace Corps OR 2) every Peace Corps alum I know went to SIT. Hmmm...

University of Minnesota
Comparative and International Education Development MA
Why It's Awesome: Not only is my international education research crush a faculty member (Hi, Dr. Paige!) in the program, but the CIDE program has a lot of options for specialization. You can focus on policy, educational exchange, and development education. If you're ready for a research-focused program with a long and respected history, this is it. Though, admission is competitive, so put some effort into those application essays.

What's the Catch: Hmmm. Well, I'm guessing the winters in Minneapolis aren't the most fun thing you'll ever experience. But millions of people do it every year, so buck up, kid. And if you're looking for a program that is more practical in nature - and less theoretical - make sure you read through the course requirements carefully. You want to make sure you'll be motivated by the coursework - and not deterred by it.

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There you have it. Seven-plus graduate programs that are sure to give you a great education, practical experience, and those ever important master's degree credentials behind your name - all with the hopes of landing that first or next study abroad job. Of course, there are plenty more programs in International Education (I considered the NYU International Education program and Columbia's program in International and Comparative Education program way back in the day) and MANY more higher education programs (Michigan State, Indiana U, Ohio State, Colorado State, UCLA….and the list goes on. You can find a pretty comprehensive list here.).

Things to Consider When Choosing a Program:

At the end of the day, you have to choose a program that fits your needs, lifestyle, budget, and interests. Here's just a few things to keep in mind.

Will the coursework keep you interested (so you'll finish)?
Will the coursework offer content and knowledge that will help you in your study abroad career? (i.e. language acquisition, cultural understanding, administrative knowledge, etc.)
Will you get practical experience from the program?
Can you afford the program?
Are you ready for grad school? (It's okay if you're not. Try a post-grad gap year instead!)

Not all programs are created equal and you have to choose a program based on your unique situation, but hopefully this list will help get you started in your search. Happy [grad school] hunting!

How Study Abroad Ruined My Life

2011-04-01T15:29:00.000-06:00

That's right. You read the headline correctly. It's time for me to come out and be honest. I hate study abroad and all it stands for. After years of pretending that study abroad revolutionized my life and the lives of the multitude of students I've worked with, I've decided to come out with the truth and lay down all the ways study abroad ruined my life...and will probably ruin yours too. Here goes.

Future Study Abroad Student

Study Abroad Made Me Poor
I took out student loans to pay for study abroad. That's right. Loans. And now as an adult and working professional I have to pay back those loans (what a bunch of hooey!). Every month when I pay my bill, I'm reminded of the mediocre architecture, weird people, even weirder languages, conversations about boring world issues/events, and more that I had to endure while studying abroad. What a waste! And now because I have that monthly payment I can't afford that sweet lamborghini that all my peers drive who didn't study abroad and who are, therefore, crazy rich. Not fair.

Study Abroad Made Me Learn Another Language
Learning another language is a waste of valuable brain power. Just admit it. I can speak a bit of French, a little Spanish, and enough Mandarin to get by because I studied abroad. How much more worthless can something like learning another language be?! I mean sure I can converse with the entire populations of France, China, Spain, Latin America, and a smattering of other African countries...but is that really worth the brain power and space I'm using for that data? After all, instead I could be using that brain activity for something awesome like producing the Real Housewives of Kansas reality show...or something.

Study Abroad Made Me Like Other People. Lame.
As a direct result of studying abroad, I now get excited to learn about other people's study abroad experiences and to meet people from all. over. the. world. This takes a lot of valuable time and energy to care and want to interact with people across cultures. And frankly, no one has time to be interested in and nice to other people. After all, having friends and being nice to other people is so not exactly what my mom had in mind for me when she raised me.

Study Abroad Doesn't Make the Rest of the World Want to be Like Me...or You For That Matter
While studying abroad, I learned very quickly that many people were not and did not want to be like me or my American friends. What gives?! We are awesome. How could people from around the world not recognize our American awesomeness and not work their entire lives to be EXACTLY like me...think like me, dress like me, of course, talk like me? Ridiculous. They want to speak their own languages, observe their own customs, eat their own weird food. I can't understand it and now I have to live the rest of my life with this knowledge and confusion.

This is just a cursory list of how study abroad ruined my life. I'm sure there are many more ways that study abroad ruined my life and yours. Feel free to add yours in the comments below.

I declare this national "Stop Everyone From Studying Abroad Day." Join the chorus!

Image found here.

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*For those readers who haven't caught on yet, this is an April Fools joke. Gotcha! You know I'm a study abroad super fan. Feel free to share the laughs. :)

Inside Study Abroad Featured on Go! Overseas

2011-03-29T11:30:00.000-06:00

Recently, I did an interview with Andrew over at Go! Overseas about all things study abroad. Looking back at our email chains, this interview was in the works for about five months and it's finally live and available on the information super highway. Wow! I love technology.

There's always so much to share and little subtle things to reveal about the study abroad experience - finding programs, paying for programs, getting the most out of programs, etc. - doing this interview reminded me that I need to do more to break down the whole study abroad juggernaut for students into smaller pieces.

Anyway, let me know what you think of the interview in the comments and thanks to Go! Overseas for the invitation.

Study Abroad Scholarship: Freeman-ASIA Fall 2011 & Academic Year 2011-12 Awards

2011-03-24T12:20:00.000-06:00

I didn't study abroad in Asia, technically. I taught English at a university in southern China, but my eight months there were some of the most culturally interesting, personally enriching, and life changing of all my travels abroad.

Me with two of my best friends in Zhuhai, China, 2006

While I'm all for any kind of study abroad destination, studying abroad in Asia is particularly promising because the numerous scholarship and grant opportunities that exist to support students in their adventures in the land left of the international date line. The Freeman-Asia scholarship program, part of the Institute for International Education, is a great program that helps increase study abroad participation in Asia, which is typically underrepresentented in the geographic distribution of study abroad student.

The deadlines are fast approaching. University office and study abroad providers should be pushing this info out on all their web and social media channels. Let's get some deserving young people to Asia!

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Freeman-ASIA provides scholarships for U.S. undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need to study abroad in East or Southeast Asia. The program's goal is to increase the number of Americans with first-hand exposure to and understanding of Asia and its peoples and cultures. Award amounts range from a maximum of $5,000 for a semester/quarter program to a maximum of $7,000 for an academic year program.

Student Application Deadline - April 1, 2011
Adviser Endorsement Deadline - April 8, 2011
For more information, eligibility requirements, and the online application, please visit: http://www.iie.org/freeman-asia

Freeman Awards for Study in Asia (Freeman-ASIA)
U.S. Student Programs
Institute of International Education
809 United Nations Plaza
New York, NY 10017-3580

Tel: (212) 984-5542
Fax: (212) 984-5325
Email: freeman-asia@iie.orgfreeman-asia@iie.org>

Cycling for Water and the Amazing Impact of Study Abroad

2011-03-16T07:00:00.006-06:00

Okay. So it's no secret that I'm a big fan of study abroad. You could say I'm even a super fan. Infact, I've had this one statement in my job application coverletters since I started applying for study abroad jobs years ago and it's never changed in all these years:

"International experiences are the highlights of academic careers and the defining points in young people's lives."

Even though I haven't had to apply for a study abroad job in a long time, this statement still rings true for me every day...especially days like today when I'm reminded of just how darn awesome study abroad really is.

Here's the story: In the fall of 2008, I sailed around the world on the MV Explorer as a staff member with Semester at Sea. [Awesome program if you can swing the cost - check out their financial aid and scholarship opportunities for study abroad.] For those of you who aren't familiar with Semester at Sea, it's a ship-based study abroad program that circumnavigates the globe visiting 10-12 countries - typically under-developed or developing - each semester. Basically, it's like a mini college with a full faculty, staff, and of course, students. Along with the crew, the ship typically has about 2,000 people on board each fall and spring semester.

Anyway...while working on the ship that awesome semester abroad, I befriended the Photographer and Videographer for the voyage, Brittany App and Garrett "Gar" Russell. Two amazingly caring and fun people who, as an added bonus to just generally being awesome people, are both very talented artists. After visiting those 10 countries that semester, Brittany and Garrett were haunted and inspired by the poverty we witnessed. You can read about it in the classroom, you can see it on the news, you can listen to other people's tales...but you never really understand the vast difference between the haves and have-nots of the world until you see, smell, hear, taste, and experience it first hand.

And that's what happened to Brittany and Garrett. They documented their experiences on Semester at Sea through photos and videos...and they came home after those four months wanting to do something more - which is what we hope all study abroad expeirences inspire people to do - come home and do something better, create something better, be someone better.

The result? Cycling for Water, a fundraising and documentary project to raise money and awareness about the lack of healthy, pure drinking water around the world. Last fall - just two years after we sailed around the world together - Brittany and Garrett set-off on a cross country bike trip spanning the USA from San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL. They documented the journey on their blog and on Facebook.

As someone who sits at a desk most days grinding out as a study abroad staffer trying to make a difference and get more students abroad, seeing Brittany and Garrett's images and reading their descriptions of the experience reminded me that the little bit I do each day to make study abroad better, more affordable, and more accessible will hopefully result in a few more Brittanys and Garretts in the world - doing cool stuff, making a difference, and loving life.

Of course this wasn't Brittany or Garrett's first "rodeo," so to speak. They're both ridiculously well traveled and supporting various causes all the time. An incredible reminder that the journey and the destination can inspire our souls and feet to action.

Check out their project and watch the prelude to their jouney below:

To donate to Cycling for Water check out their website Cycling for Water. And to see their amazing journey across North America, check out the slideshows on Vimeo: Part 1 and Part 2.

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Image of students at top (with a little flair by me) from Wagner College study abroad office website. Go Seahawks!

Study Abroad Job: International Program Coordinator and Advisor at Miami University (OH)

2011-03-10T00:37:00.005-07:00

Here's what I have to say about this job at Miami University: Combine a picturesque setting, the rumored heated sidewalks, and some pretty cool study abroad colleagues and you get one sweet gig in international education. I went to grad school in Ohio (a place I never thought I'd live) and I'm not ashamed to say that I loved it. If you're at all politically minded, as a swing state, Ohio brings a new layer of "civic engagement" to your life when literally every vote has to be counted to determine a winner. Even if you could care less about politics, Ohio has something for everyone. And in terms of professional development, Ohio has more colleges and universities than most states have counties, so you'll always be surrounded by other interesting, engaged international educators. If nothing else, you can at least go ride the roller coasters at Cedar Point amusement park. :)

Miami University seeks an International Program Coordinator and Advisor to serve the advising needs of our growing population of international and study abroad students, and the online and print communication needs of multiple offices providing international services at Miami University.

Under the supervision of the Director of International Education, this new position has multiple responsibilities: Collaborate with the Office of International Education, the Office of Lifelong Learning, the Miami University Dolibois European Center and the Center for American and World Cultures to ensure consistent print and online communications by reviewing and updating print and online international program information; serve as a study abroad advisor by conducting general information sessions and individual advising; provide international student-visa advising and counseling assistance, prepare visa documents and report via the SEVIS system as a Designated School Official; accomplish delegated OIE office duties; and other duties as assigned.

The successful candidate must have, at minimum, a bachelor's degree in International Studies, Business Administration, Computer Science or related field; website management experience; one year of full-time student-service related experience; and excellent oral and written communication skills. Federal regulations require that this SEVIS-authorized position be held by a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident.

The desired qualifications are a Master's degree in International Education, International Studies, International Business or related field; two or more years of print and online communication management experience; two or more years of full-time international student-service related experience; experience working with diverse populations of students; international living or working experience; and knowledge of international education services.

Screening for this position will begin on April 1st and will continue until the position is filled. The start-date is May 1, 2011 or soon thereafter. The salary range is $33,000 to $38,000 per year plus an attractive benefits package.

Miami University, a public ivy institution, is known nationally for the excellence of its undergraduate, selected graduate and international programs, and for the beauty of its scenic campus in the classic college town of Oxford in southwestern Ohio. The campus is equally convenient to the Cincinnati and Dayton Airports and is within easy reach of many cultural attractions.

To apply for this position, send a cover letter, detailed and focused resume and a list of at least three professional references to Dr. David J. Keitges, Director of International Education, either by email to dkeitges@muohio.edu or by postal mail to Office of International Education, 216 MacMillan, Oxford, Ohio 45056.

Miami University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer with smoke-free campuses. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. For information regarding campus crime and safety, visit http://www.muohio.edu/righttoknow. A hard copy of this report is available upon request.http://www.units.muohio.edu/internationalprograms/index.php

Study Abroad Job: IFSA-Butler Manager of Student Services - New Zealand

2010-11-06T11:18:00.002-06:00

Oh goodness! I was two seconds away from applying for this job and then read those dream killing words of "Preference will be given to candidates who are NZ residents or who already have the legal right to work [in New Zealand]." That always stings a little - and I already have pretty good gig anyway. But for those of you who are up for an adventure and working with students DURING the study abroad experience, this job may be for you. Good luck!

IFSA-Butler is seeking a Manager of Student Services for its New Zealand programs. This position is based in Wellington, New Zealand. The Manager of Student Services reports to the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer who is based at IFSA-Butler's main office in Indianapolis, Indiana. Preference will be given to candidates who are NZ residents or who already have the legal right to work there.

Manager of Student Services-New Zealand
The Manager of Student Services has responsibility for most facets of the operation in-country, including but not limited to:

• Overseeing the on-site orientation, housing placements, academic support, and emergency response/pastoral care of IFSA-Butler students while they are in New Zealand;
• Supervising IFSA-Butler New Zealand office staff, and four Student Services Coordinators located throughout New Zealand;
• Managing the New Zealand program's approved annual budget for student services;
• Communicating with the Executive Vice President in Indianapolis and other worldwide staff to maintain the high standards of IFSA-Butler in general, and New Zealand programs in particular.

Following are key skills and characteristics the Manager of Student Services should possess to be successful in this position:

• Excellent administrative and interpersonal skills
• Experience with university-age students
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability and background in staff management
• Willingness to create intercultural learning opportunities for US students
• Familiarity with tertiary administration in NZ/US
• Excellent written and oral communication skills including public speaking
• Flexibility
• Ability and willingness to travel
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and demands required in a complex organization
• Fundamental computer skills are required (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets, using email, navigating the web, and using a database).

Interested candidates should email a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, and contact information for three references to Mary Georgantes (mgeorgan@ifsa-butler.org), Director of Human Resources. Please use Microsoft Word format and indicate "Manager of Student Services" in the subject line. Application materials should be submitted immediately as this position will be filled as soon as possible.

Cronk News: The Onion Meets the Chronicle of Higher Education

2010-10-19T06:01:00.000-06:00

If you love The Onion and snarky articles about things like study abroad AND if you love the Chronicle of Higher Education and interesting, well-researched articles like this, then YOU WILL LOVE the Cronk of Higher Education.

As a dear friend of mine who is Director of Residence Life at a university in Boston described it, "This [higher ed news] site begs us to take ourselves a little less seriously." It's fun to take a light-hearted reflective nonsensical jab at ourselves from time to time. Especially with so much to make fun of.

Study Abroad Job: Program Assistant - Guilford College

2010-10-18T18:39:00.003-06:00

If you worked as a student advisor or peer advisor in your university study abroad office, this Program Assistant job at Guilford College may be for you. With only 1-3 years experience required, new grads will find this to be a great position to get your foot in the education abroad door and well on your way to study abroad rock star status.

POSITION TITLE: Study Abroad Program Assistant

STATUS: Full-time, 12-month position

BASIC FUNCTION: Manages day-to-day operations of expanding study abroad program, supporting six semester-long faculty-led programs and numerous third-party provider arrangements, for 120+ students per year. Must have/acquire knowledge of college policies and operations, study abroad programs, foreign visa procedures, curriculum, financial reporting and other record keeping. Limited weekend and evening work as required.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITY: develop, update, and stock paper and web-based promotional materials; acquire substantial knowledge of program options; advise students on study abroad options; manage student application and notification processes for study abroad and scholarship programs; answer telephone and generic e-mail inquiries, including speaking with parents; process accepted students through required documentation, including foreign visa, procedures; organize and perform common study abroad orientation programming; keep current on foreign visa and travel regulations for program locations; communicate with student financial services regarding special billing; manage schedules for visiting guests; organize study abroad fair, dinner, and other event details; maintain databases and important files; process requisitions for department expenditures, including international wire transfers; manage office supplies; other duties as determined in consultation with Director of Study Abroad.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY: Manages day-to-day operations of expanding study abroad program, supporting six semester-long faculty-led programs and numerous third-party provider arrangements, for 120+ students per year. Must have/acquire knowledge of college policies and operations, study abroad programs, foreign visa procedures, curriculum, financial reporting and other record keeping. Limited weekend and evening work as required.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelors degree required. One to three years experience in international/study abroad office preferred. Experience in office management considered. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills needed. Proven customer service skills with some public presentation experience. Enjoys working with students and faculty articulating and promoting program options. Willingness to be flexible and multi-task. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (including Access) required; experience in web/graphic design and web site maintenance a plus.

DEADLINE: October 21, 2010

Study Abroad Job: Study Abroad Coordinator - Colorado State University

2010-10-18T18:14:00.001-06:00

Okay, so in this job at Colorado State University not only do you get to work with some pretty awesome people (I know the Assistant Director from her days at the University of Kansas), but you also get to live in glorious Fort Collins, Colorado. I'm not biased or anything, but I love living in Foco and would welcome more international ed professionals in the area. Go Rams!

Position: Study Abroad Coordinator

The Study Abroad Coordinator is the administrative professional responsible for managing a portfolio of study abroad programs in the world area of his/her expertise, providing general and region-specific study abroad advising, coordinating and overseeing the promotion and outreach activities of the Study Abroad office, liaising with affiliate and unaffiliated program providers, and supervising 6-8 student Peer Advisors. This is a full-time appointment subject to review and reappointment. This position reports to the Director of Study Abroad.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

Manage CSU study abroad and reciprocal exchange programs in one or more assigned geographic regions.
Develop and maintain participant materials for application, acceptance, registration, orientation, and evaluation specific to CSU programs in assigned areas.
Coordinate regional and program-specific orientation sessions for outbound students. Assist with the planning and presentation of general orientation and re-entry sessions.
Collaborate with partner institutions regarding incoming and outbound student applicants and manage student exchange balances according to exchange agreements.
Process application and admission documents, and coordinate immigration documents for incoming exchange students

STUDY ABROAD ADVISING

Serve as the primary campus advisor for educational opportunities abroad in one or more assigned geographic regions.
Meet with students to assess appropriate program placement with regard to academic, personal, professional, and financial goals for Study Abroad.
Advise students, faculty, staff and parents on CSU administrative policies and procedures as related to study abroad.
Advise incoming exchange students on application and registration procedures at CSU; serve as primary liaison between exchange students and CSU academic departments; assist students upon arrival with housing logistics, orientation, cultural adjustment, course selection, and registration and serve as their primary advisor during entire study period at CSU.

PROMOTION AND OUTREACH

Develop and implement comprehensive annual marketing and promotions plan for Study Abroad.
Oversee coordination of outreach activities and make presentations about study abroad on the CSU campus.
Coordinate two major on-campus fairs for the promotion of study abroad programs.
Oversee the content, design, and publication of the Study Abroad catalog.
Assist the Director with media relations, including responding to student requests for interviews.
Oversee the design and placement of advertisements in university publications.
Organize and maintain study abroad materials in International Resource Center.
Coordinate annual study abroad photo and multi-media contests.

LIAISON WITH THIRD-PARTY ORGANIZATIONS

Serve as primary point of contact at CSU for affiliate and unaffiliated program providers.
Respond to requests for information by third-party organizations.
Schedule and host campus visits for representatives from affiliate organizations

SUPERVISION OF PEER ADVISORS

Hire, train, and supervise 6-8 student peer advisors.
Coordinate staffing of the International Resource Center by Peer Advisors.
Conduct supervisor evaluation of student employees on an annual basis

QUALIFICATIONS:

Applicants for the job must meet the following required qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree
Two or more years cumulative work experience in the field of international education
Experience living, studying or working outside of the United States for a minimum of three months
Public speaking experience
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Demonstrated ability to work as an effective team member
Demonstrated experience using MS Office Suite

Preferred qualifications include:

Master’s degree in a relevant field
Study, work, or travel experience in Asia or the Asia-Pacific region.
Previous experience in study abroad program administration and student advising in an academic setting
Experience in marketing or promotions
Experience supervising student employees
Experience using desktop publishing software
Experience using StudioAbroad

Application Deadline: November 1, 2010

To Apply: Submit a cover letter specifically addressing both required and preferred qualifications, resume, and the name, phone, address and e-mail of three professional references in a single electronic file formatted in MS Word or as a .pdf document to:

Angela Perryman, Chair

Study Abroad Coordinator Search Committee

angela.perryman@colostate.edu

Review of applications will begin on Monday, November 1, 2010; however applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Study Abroad Job: Education Abroad Advisor & Exchange Advisor at Kennesaw State

2010-10-18T16:58:00.001-06:00

As the cold weather approaches, a job in southern Georgia is starting to sound really nice. Not to mention that Kennesaw State has a robust study abroad operation. Both of these positions would be a great opportunity for anyone new(er) to the field to get some great advising experience. Go Owls!

Apply for this job ASAP! Applications due tomorrow, October 19!

Kennesaw State University has two new positions in the Education Abroad Office. Applicants are encouraged to apply for both:

Position: Education Abroad Advisor

Posting Number: 0402526

Job Open Date: 10-06-2010 Job Close Date: 10-19-2010

Institute of Global Initiatives, Education Abroad Office

Hours per week or course load if faculty: 40

Position status: Staff- Regular

Benefits Eligible: Yes

Position Summary:

This position provides comprehensive guidance and support to faculty and students interested and participating in study abroad. The study abroad advisor is responsible for managing a wide range of academic and administrative functions necessary for carrying out successful overseas experiences.
Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and 2 years experience.
Desired Education/Experience/Skills (Additional Qualifications): Two years experience in study abroad office and/or overseas experience preferred. Vision and strong organizational and analytical skills, high motivation and energy, cross-cultural sensitivity, excellent verbal and written communication skills, computer literacy, the ability to solve problems, collaborative team spirit, and flexibility are essential.

This position offers $32,500 annually

Position: Exchange Advisor

Job Open Date: 10-06-2010 Job Close Date: 10-19-2010

Posting Number: 0402525

Institute of Global Initiatives, Education Abroad Office

Hours per week or course load if faculty: 40

Position status: Staff- Regular

Benefits Eligible: Yes

Position Summary:

This position provides comprehensive guidance and support to faculty and students interested and participating in exchanges. The exchange advisor is responsible for managing a wide range of academic and administrative functions necessary for carrying out successful overseas experiences.
Work schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm
Required Education/Experience/Skills (Minimum Qualifications): Bachelor's degree and 2 years experience.
Desired Education/Experience/Skills (Additional Qualifications): Two years experience in int'l exchange office and/or overseas experience preferred.
Vision and strong organizational and analytical skills, high motivation and energy, cross-cultural sensitivity, excellent verbal and written communication skills, computer literacy, the ability to solve problems, collaborative team spirit, and flexibility are essential.

The salary offered for this position is $32,500 annually

Click here to learn more.

Study Abroad Job: Residence Manager Nido Student Living - London UK

2010-10-18T16:26:00.001-06:00

I was weirdly lucky to see the Nido Student Living residence hall in London during the construction stage. Somewhere in my deep archives of photos, there's a picture of me in a hard hat. I'll spare you that cheesy image. The point is, it's an incredible facility that, if I were oh so blessed to have an EU work permit, I'd definitely be eager to work in - and that King's Cross location can't be beat!
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Residence Manager - Nido Student Living - London UK

Nido Student Living is looking for a Residence Manager responsible for the day-to-day management of our 1045-bed residence in the King's Cross area of Central London. This is a very entrepreneurial post for someone who has prior experience in managing student accommodation, managing sizable budgets and understands the concept and responsibilities of Residence Life.

There is a Facilities Manager onsite who oversees third party contractors (maintenance, security, housekeeping), a team of Front Desk administrators and 10 RAs currently in place.

We are not connected to a university, but accommodate students from all over the world in a fun, hip and trendy environment.

Duties include general management and ensuring smooth operations. You will develop and manage budgets, approve expenses; ensure the FM team is maintaining the building fabric; hire, train and manage a team of RAs; monitor front desk operations, manage pastoral care, and strive to create a multi-cultural atmosphere through hall events.

The candidate will be expected to administer policies and activities much like you would in a standard campus environment - residential life, student counseling, student group advising, handling of grievances, discipline, volunteer programs and responding to emergency situations.

The position of Residence Manager requires an individual who is self-motivated, capable of functioning independently and within a group, possesses strong leadership, interpersonal and communication skills. This individual must be willing to commit his/her efforts to the enhancement of Residence Life through positive role modeling and dedication to the residence experience.

Qualification
· 3 + years previous experience of managing a hall with over 500 residents
· Budget development and management
· Masters degree in Student Affairs, Student Psychology/Development or related field
· Previous experience managing of a team of professionals or a large staff of RAs
· A proven record of social programming development in residence
· Strong communication and skills
· Awareness of other cultures, societies and practices
· Foreign language proficiency required
· Flexibility to work nights and weekends as required
· Experience living abroad and commitment to diversity
· Strong aptitude in student judicial affairs and student counseling
· Innovative and think like an entrepreneur
· Preference given to those permitted to work in the EU

Salary £30,000 + health/dental/pension benefits + a large studio apartment next to the Residence Hall. Post is 'live in' and is available immediately.

Please send cover letter and CV to cooljobs@nidostudentliving.com. We will only contact those we feel are qualified for the post.

VIDEO: Interview with Mike Stone of StudyAbroad101.com

2010-10-05T20:17:00.003-06:00

Recently, I had a ton of fun chatting (via skype) with Mike Stone, co-founder of www.StudyAbroad101.com, a study abroad review site. Mike sat down with me to talk about his own study abroad experience, trends in study abroad, and of course, his fear of sleep-overs.

I first met Mike and the other co-founder at a Boston-Area Study Abroad Advisors (BASAA) meeting about 2.5 years ago when Study Abroad 101 was just two guys with an interesting idea. And since I'm all about transparency in international education, I was immediately intrigued by their concept.

A few years later, when I was heading up a one-person study abroad office (what I like to call a one-woman study abroad show) at the University of South Dakota, I re-discovered Study Abroad 101. One of their growth strategies was to help small offices like mine collect student reviews of their times abroad. Of course, I was all for free help, so I enlisted their services to help me corral all those juicy study abroad evaluations that I didn't have time to collect myself. They were a big help to me in that situation and I wish them the best of luck as they continue to grow Study Abroad 101.

A big thank you to Mike Stone for taking the time to chat with me. Good times, as always.

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Who should I interview next? Is there someone you'd like to see interviewed on Inside Study Abroad? Send me your suggestions via email or leave them in the comments. I'll see if I can ~~badger~~ persuade them to join me for another Inside Study Abroad chat.

How the Internet Screwed Up Study Abroad

2010-09-23T07:44:00.007-06:00

I'm not sure what it is...but there's something changing about study abroad. And I'm not just talking about the morphing of the traditional "Junior Year Abroad" model to short-term faculty-led programs. We all know that's changing; we've all read the "Open Doors" data. No...something else is shifting. As I think about my first study abroad experience in college (nearly 10 years ago) and the experiences students have been having since then, it seems that technology is changing the nature of the study abroad experience.

I remember studying in Geneva during the spring semester 2001 and painfully counting out and relenquishing a few Swiss Francs for a few fleeting minutes at the internet cafe around the corner. At that time, taking a laptop abroad was still unheard of...let alone having internet in your housing or room. That would just be ridiculous. My housing still had rotary phones shared by the residents at the end of the hall. (However, from what I've learned, my old room at L'Accueil near the Augustan tram stop now has wireless internet on every floor. Incredible.)

Now, when I'm advising students or leading a pre-departure orientation, the advice I give and the questions I get about connectivity is completely changed. I think now we all assume that students have and will take laptops with them on their experiences (sometimes, even on the two-week 'glimpse trips'). And what's even more interesting is their ability to connect those magical devices to the internet (read: facebook, twitter, email, skype, etc.) almost anywhere they go. For some students, their entire experience can be shared (almost) instantaneously with their friends and family back home. [Granted, this proliferation of connectivity around the world impacts all travel, not just study abroad.] Some universities are even requiring more connectivity and "reporting back" from experiences abroad. And sites like The GoAbroad Network are integrating the study abroad blogging world with a Facebook-esque social networking tool. Wow. Technology and study abroad sure have come a long way...

Does that lessen the value of the experience? Are we concerned that students will be less willing to give in to complete immersion, the disconnection of sinking deep into a culture, a people, a place? It's hard to do that when one hand is tethered to a twitter feed. I'm just sayin'.

On the flip side, the internet and information sharing now means that students have access to perspectives, opinions, experiences that would have never been availed to them otherwise. Encyclopedia Britannica didn't include first person narratives, but the internet, oh the internet, has so many blogs, and blogs about travel and other places that you can glimpse the world from your sofa while watching the Daily Show or the Real World.

What do you think? Technology? The internet? Social Media? Is it helping or hurting? Or does it just change the goals and the rubric on which we measure success? If it does change the way we measure/assess the experience...what are our goals? And with this new medium to work with/compete with, how willwe begin to reframe the experience? Is it enough to send them on their way and hope that the tactics of the past (even the recent past) will be enough to achieve the learning we're after? Technology: Friend or Foe?

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Image courtesy of metaroll on flickr