Advice for Applicants from an International Education Perspective:

If you’re passionate about international education and enjoy working with prospective students from diverse backgrounds, the position of Assistant Director of International Recruitment at Old Dominion University may offer the perfect opportunity to contribute to global outreach and student success. This is a full-time, 12-month role that requires an impactful combination of cultural diplomacy, recruitment expertise, and relationship-building skills.

For applicants applying specifically from an international education perspective, here are some key pieces of advice to consider:

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1. Highlight Your International Experience

Leverage any prior experiences you have with international education systems, recruitment, or enrollment management. Whether you’ve studied abroad, worked in international admissions, collaborated with diverse student populations, or are fluent in a second (or third) language, emphasize these qualifications. The role highly values firsthand familiarity with global education practices and cultural sensitivity. If you can articulate how these experiences shaped your ability to support international students transitioning into higher education in the United States, your application will stand out.

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2. Showcase Expertise in Recruitment and Program Development

Given that this role focuses on international student recruitment and the creation of programs to support those initiatives, demonstrate your ability to create and manage recruitment plans that yield measurable results. Highlight instances where you’ve contributed to growing international enrollment or developed partnerships with stakeholders such as high school counselors, community-based organizations, third-party agents, or education consultants. Old Dominion University seeks someone with considerable admissions experience who understands international enrollment trends-tie this directly to your past successes.

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3. Address SEVIS and F-1 Visa Experience

This position requires serving as a Designated School Official (DSO) for SEVIS under U.S. immigration guidelines. If you have experience with F-1 visa students or knowledge of non-immigrant student policies, make sure that is front and center in your application. The ability to navigate compliance and visa documentation is essential, so demonstrating familiarity with SEVIS certification or related practices adds significant value to your candidacy.

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4. Use a Global Mindset in Collaborative Leadership

Old Dominion University emphasizes teamwork and collaboration across departments while maintaining high levels of confidentiality and diplomacy. Reflect on how you’ve previously used collaboration to implement international programs, improve student communication pre- and post-admission, or work alongside faculty and administrators to provide a seamless onboarding experience for international students. Discuss specific examples of how you’ve handled cross-cultural sensitivities and worked within policies to provide equitable support.

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5. Tailor Your Educational Background

The role requires applicants with a master’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent qualifications related to international recruitment, education, or admissions. If you pursued a degree that has an international emphasis (e.g., International Relations, Global Education, or Higher Education Administration with a global focus), make explicit connections between your academic training and your ability to lead in this role.

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6. Illustrate Your Communication Skills

Whether building relationships with partners or engaging international audiences through creative marketing strategies, this position calls for excellent written and verbal communication skills. Provide examples of how you’ve successfully utilized social media, promotional events, campaigns, or international student fairs to recruit students or foster engagement with diverse populations. If you’ve presented at conferences or conducted outreach in different countries, highlight those experiences.

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7. Prepare for the Interview with the U.S. Focus in Mind

Given that this role supports international students transitioning into an American university, ensure you are prepared to discuss how you would recommend aligning your recruitment strategies with U.S. higher education expectations, immigration policies, diversity growth, and strategic enrollment planning. Research Old Dominion University’s international admission goals and make connections between your skill set and their global vision.

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8. Leverage Any Language Skills

While not required, proficiency in another language is highly preferred, especially if this skill can be used for building relationships or supporting students from specific geographic regions. Fluency can significantly enhance your ability to connect with prospective students and their families, as well as key partners overseas. Highlight language abilities prominently in both your application and interview.

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9. Apply Early and Thoughtfully

The position remains open until filled, but applying promptly ensures your application enters the review process before priority candidates are identified. Take the time to craft a targeted cover letter and résumé that clearly align your international education experience, recruitment expertise, and collaborative leadership skills with Old Dominion University’s mission and values.

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10. Explore and Emphasize the University Connection

Old Dominion University is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion. If you share these values and want to contribute to their efforts to welcome underrepresented international students, mention this alignment in your application and detail how your experiences position you to advance the University’s objectives. Research their current international outreach initiatives and incorporate this knowledge into your application narrative.

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Final Steps:

Carefully review the job posting on Old Dominion University’s website here, ensuring all required documents are included. Tailor your application materials to the position, addressing both the required and preferred qualifications. Finally, let your enthusiasm for international recruitment and education shine through-this is your chance to make a difference in global higher education!

Old Dominion University is dedicated to expanding access, fostering diversity, and supporting equity across its campus. If you’re ready to bring your international expertise, collaborative spirit, and innovative ideas to this vibrant university community, apply today!