From Arrival to Graduation: Understanding and Enhancing Support for International Students

Wednesday, November 5, 2025
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Allendale Campus, Online
Faculty, Staff

GVSU Inclusion & Equity Institute Color Burst

International students face a unique set of challenges and transitions as they navigate academic life, cultural adjustment, immigration requirements, and personal growth far from home. This workshop maps the offices and individuals who support international students across the full student lifecycle, clarifying roles and responsibilities at each stage.

Through small-group breakout discussions, participants will share and learn how different people and units have effectively supported students during difficult times. The session will culminate in a powerful testimony from an international student whose experience exemplifies the value of timely, compassionate support.

Whether you work directly with students or support them behind the scenes, this workshop will deepen your understanding, spark ideas for collaboration, and help build a more connected support network for our international community.

Learning Outcomes - Participants will be able to:

Map out the offices and individuals involved at each phase of the international student journey, from recruitment to graduation.
Understand the interconnected responsibilities across units that support international student success.
Reflect on real-world examples of how individuals and departments have supported students during times of difficulty.
Identify ways they or their office can enhance support for international students, especially during moments of stress or crisis.
Recognize the personal impact that coordinated, compassionate support can have through the lens of a student's story.

Presenters:

Libby Jawish (She/Her/Hers) Director, International Student & Scholar Services
Rachel Salinas (She/Her/Hers) Assistant Dean, College of Computing
David Carlisle (He/Him/His) Associate Director, International Recruitment & Admissions
Holli Reyes (She/Her/Hers) International Student Engagement Coordinator, College of Computing

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Location Information

Allendale Campus in Kirkhof Center - RM 2263

Registration on Workday Learning is required to receive a Zoom link

Download parking map for the Allendale Campus

Contact Information

Inclusion & Equity Institute

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 616-331-4111

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This event was added to the calendar by Ashley Jefferson (jeffeash@gvsu.edu) on Monday, August 11, 2025 and was last updated on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 1:18 p.m.

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