Advice for Applicants: Applying for the Assistant Director of International Admissions Role at Old Dominion University from an International Education Perspective

Old Dominion University (ODU) invites applications for the role of Assistant Director of International Admissions based in Norfolk, VA. This exciting opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about advancing international education and facilitating global connections. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact on students from diverse cultural backgrounds, this guide will help you tailor your application for this specialized position.

Key Elements to Consider When Applying

1. Highlight International Education Experience

ODU places a significant emphasis on experience working with international and diverse populations. Be sure to showcase:

• Any previous roles in admissions, student recruitment, or academic advising geared toward international students.
• Studies, work experience, or travel abroad, as well as familiarity with other cultures and educational systems.
• Language proficiency, particularly if you speak multiple languages. If you have experience navigating intercultural communication, this is an excellent aspect to highlight.

If you’ve worked with high school counselors, international student organizations, or community groups that serve international populations, include those experiences in your application.

2. Demonstrate Technical Expertise in Student Visas & Immigration

Since the job involves assisting with SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System), prior familiarity with student visa regulations (F-1, J-1) is highly valuable. If you’ve served as a Designated School Official (DSO) or have worked with immigration policies, be sure to:

• Specify your knowledge of SEVIS policies or certifications.
• Address how you’ve supported students through visa application processes in previous roles.

U.S. citizenship is required for SEVIS DSO/ARO certification, so confirm that you meet this criterion.

3. Showcase Recruitment Strategy Skills

This role involves international travel and program development to recruit students from diverse global regions. Demonstrate your ability to:

• Develop recruitment plans and maintain partnerships with foreign schools or institutions.
• Utilize data and analytics to track enrollment trends and inform recruitment strategies.
• Manage relationships with third-party agencies involved in student recruitment.

Highlight your ability to adapt strategies to meet the needs of cultural differences and varying market trends in global education.

4. Leadership and Collaboration

This position requires working closely with the Director, Associate Director, university stakeholders, and external organizations. Show that:

• You thrive in team environments and successfully manage collaboration with others.
• You have the ability to coach and lead, especially when shaping processes related to international student admissions.

Be prepared to provide examples of how your collaboration and leadership skills have positively influenced student outcomes or organizational goals.

5. Strong Communication and Marketing Skills

International recruitment requires outstanding communication and marketing abilities to engage students across cultures. Emphasize your experience with:

• Writing professional and culturally sensitive materials (email communication, recruitment brochures, etc.).
• Using social media platforms and technology tools for outreach and marketing.

If you specialize in tailoring messages to resonate with prospective international students, highlight this in your application.

6. Education Credentials

While a Master’s degree is listed as a minimum qualification, applicants with a Bachelor’s degree and equivalent experience may also qualify. A degree with an emphasis on international education, intercultural studies, or a similar field will give you an advantage. If you’ve pursued any certifications relevant to global education or international admissions, include those.

7. Address Your Passion for International Education

ODU’s Office of International Admissions values individuals who are committed to supporting international students through recruitment and enrollment processes. Let your enthusiasm for fostering cultural exchange and promoting access to education shine through your application.

8. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

ODU emphasizes its dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Applicants should demonstrate their ability to work effectively with people from minoritized communities and diverse backgrounds. If you’ve contributed to initiatives that promote equity in international education, be sure to detail those in your cover letter.

Tips for Submitting Your Application

1. Customize Your Cover Letter:

– Directly address how your experiences and qualifications align with the specific responsibilities listed in the job description.
– Highlight your understanding of ODU’s mission and values, particularly in fostering global connections and diversity.

1. Include International Experience on Your Resume:

– Use clear examples that emphasize your achievements in international admissions, visa processes, or educational program management.
– Quantify your results where possible (e.g., “Increased international student enrollment by X% annually through innovative recruitment strategies”).

1. Prepare for Document Submission:

– The University’s application systems may require additional documents, such as a statement of equity or diversity. Be ready to articulate how your work has upheld principles of inclusion and access.

1. Meet the Deadlines:

– The application review date is set for May 27, 2025. Ensure your materials are submitted well in advance to leave a positive impression.

1. Contact for Reasonable Accommodations:

– If needed, reach out to the Office of Institutional Equity & Diversity for accommodations during the application process or interview.

1. Be Prepared for the Criminal Background Check:

– The final candidate will undergo this check, so ensure your history aligns with employment criteria.

About Old Dominion University

ODU is Virginia’s forward-thinking public research university, serving over 23,000 students with a globally-oriented educational approach. Its focus on innovative research, inclusivity, and economic impact makes it an ideal institution for professionals who aspire to contribute to meaningful advances in international education. If you’re ready to make a difference in students’ lives while fostering global connections, ODU offers an exceptional environment to grow personally and professionally.

Final Note

This position provides a unique opportunity to drive impactful international student recruitment strategies in a collaborative and dynamic environment. Share your cultural competencies, recruitment strategies, and passion for building global connections to stand out as an applicant. With the right preparation and a tailored application, you’ll position yourself as an ideal candidate for this rewarding role