How to Apply: Tips for Success with an International Education Perspective

Kenyon College is seeking a passionate and qualified Assistant/Associate Director of International Student and Scholar Services to join its Center for Global Engagement (CGE). This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of international education, cultural exchange, and student development. Below, we provide tailored advice for applicants from an international education perspective to ensure your application stands out and aligns with this exciting role.

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Position Summary:

The Assistant/Associate Director plays a key role in fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for international students and scholars. You’ll manage responsibilities such as immigration advising, student programming, workshops, and collaboration with key campus and community partners. It’s a dynamic role best suited for individuals who thrive in cross-cultural contexts and have a strong understanding of F-1 visa regulations and student development principles.

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Key Advice for International Education Professionals Applying:

1. Emphasize Understanding of U.S. Immigration Law:

As the Designated School Official (DSO), you’ll advise on F-1 visa processes, OPT/CPT workshops, SEVIS records, and related compliance. Illustrate your expertise in F-1 visa regulations and federal guidelines in your cover letter. If you have prior experience advising students on visas, share detailed examples of how you’ve supported their needs while ensuring compliance. Familiarity with SEVIS and other legal requirements is crucial.

1. Highlight Cross-Cultural Competence:

This position requires experience working with diverse populations, a commitment to equity, and an ability to foster cultural understanding. Showcase instances where you’ve advocated for international students or developed initiatives to facilitate cultural integration. Kenyon values candidates who approach international education with sensitivity and care.

1. Demonstrate Program Coordination Skills:

You will plan and conduct workshops for international students, including pre-orientation, OPT/CPT sessions, and tax assistance. Mention your experience with hosting events or workshops for students, whether virtual or in-person, and describe your ability to manage logistics while delivering engaging, informative programming.

1. Experience Living, Studying, or Working Abroad:

Kenyon College’s preference for candidates with significant international experience should be reflected in your application. Share how your background as a global citizen-whether through study abroad, international work, or personal cross-cultural experiences-has contributed to your professional perspective. Highlight the skills you’ve developed in adapting to new environments and helping students do the same.

1. Showcase Multilingual Abilities:

While not required, proficiency in another language is a strong asset in supporting international students. If you have foreign language skills, mention them and explain how this has aided your cross-cultural interactions, particularly in advising non-native English speakers.

1. Familiarity with Technology Tools in International Education:

Kenyon uses systems such as Sprintax for tax preparation and SEVIS for immigration compliance. If you have experience working with StudioAbroad (or similar education abroad platforms), include examples of how you’ve utilized technology to streamline administrative processes and enhance student services.

1. Collaborative Communication with Stakeholders:

The role involves liaising with offices like Financial Aid, Academic Advising, Admissions, and external agencies (e.g., Social Security). Showcase your ability to navigate complex institutional structures and communicate effectively with multiple stakeholders to advocate for international students.

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Qualifications Summary:

• Required:

– Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., international education, student affairs, intercultural studies).
– 3-5 years of professional experience in international student services for the assistant level, and 5-7 years for the associate level.
– U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (federal DSO requirement).
– Knowledge of F-1 visa regulations.
– Cross-cultural communication and mentorship skills.

• Preferred:

– Experience living/working abroad.
– Knowledge of H-1B visas or other visa categories.
– Foreign language proficiency.

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Why Kenyon?

Situated in a close-knit college community, Kenyon is distinguished by its robust liberal arts curriculum, dedication to academic excellence, and commitment to inclusivity. Salaries are competitive, and the College offers an attractive benefits package, including tuition waivers for employees’ children, health and dental insurance, retirement plans, and more.

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Application Tips:

1. Craft a Globally Minded Cover Letter:

Speak to how your prior experience aligns with Kenyon’s mission of global engagement and community building. Highlight specific contributions to international education, student services, or visa compliance in past roles.

1. Use Metrics and Impact Statements:

Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible. For instance, “Increased participation in international student workshops by 25%,” or “Successfully processed 200 I-20 forms and maintained 100% compliance with SEVIS reporting deadlines.”

1. Tailor Your Resume:

Focus on skills and experiences relevant to international education, immigration advising, programming, and student development. Use language specific to the field, such as “cultural competence,” “visa compliance,” and “global programming.”

1. Highlight Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:

Kenyon values inclusive practices and cultural sensitivity. Share any programs or initiatives you’ve implemented to support underrepresented students, and highlight your ability to foster belonging among diverse populations.

1. International Applicants:

While this position requires U.S. residency or citizenship (for DSO eligibility), if you’re not yet eligible but have relevant qualifications, consider reaching out to learn about other opportunities at Kenyon that align with your background.

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Closing Thoughts:

Kenyon College offers a deeply rewarding chance to impact international students’ journeys while promoting cultural exchange in an academic community. Preparing an application that demonstrates your global perspective, immigration expertise, and ability to support diverse students will position you as a strong candidate for this role.

To apply, visit Kenyon College’s recruitment page and submit your materials as soon as possible to avoid missing this unique opportunity. Best of luck in your application process-your passion for international education could make a transformative difference at Kenyon!