How to Apply for the Position of International Services Coordinator from an International Education Perspective

If you’re interested in joining Old Dominion University (ODU) as an International Services Coordinator, here’s tailored advice for applicants with a focus on international education and cross-cultural experiences:

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Why This Role Might Speak To You

This position is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of international student services and administrative support within a highly diverse university environment. Whether you’ve studied abroad, lived in different countries, or engaged with multicultural communities, this role could utilize your unique experiences to make a tangible impact on the lives of international students and scholars.

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Key Skills Needed

1. Customer Service Excellence: Applicants should have a strong track record in providing outstanding service, particularly in diverse or cross-cultural settings. Many international students may need guidance through complex processes, and your ability to empathize, resolve concerns, and communicate effectively will be critical.

– Tip: Highlight specific instances where you’ve demonstrated cultural sensitivity or resolved issues for a diverse clientele.

1. Administrative and Organizational Abilities: The role heavily involves managing workflows and processes, particularly those that impact international students (e.g., insurance waivers, compliance management). Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Office Suite, Banner, or similar platforms is valuable.

– Tip: Bring attention to your ability to juggle multiple priorities while ensuring accuracy and timeliness, especially if you’ve coordinated projects or systems across borders.

1. Cross-Cultural Competence: The ability to engage effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds is essential. If you’ve studied a foreign language, volunteered with refugee populations, or worked in international education environments, those experiences will make you stand out.

– Tip: Include examples of how you’ve facilitated cross-cultural communication or displayed cultural intelligence in your previous roles.

1. Knowledge of International Regulations: Familiarity with immigration policies or global insurance requirements can help you navigate the responsibilities of the position. If you’ve worked in contexts involving visas, compliance, or international benefits, this is the place to highlight it.

– Tip: Mention any specific training or experience with immigration software like FSA Atlas or similar tools, as it will demonstrate your readiness for the technical aspects of the position.

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Additional Considerations for Applicants from an International Education Background

• Education and Training: While no specific educational requirements are listed for this position, a background in international relations, intercultural communication, or a related field could strengthen your application.

– Tip: If you’ve taken coursework or undergone training relevant to international student services, be sure to mention it.

• Global Experience: Considerable exposure to international communities-whether through study abroad programs, living overseas, or volunteering with international populations-is highly valued.

– Tip: Highlight how these experiences have helped you develop skills like adaptability, problem-solving, and an appreciation for diversity.

• Language Skills: While not specifically required, proficiency in additional languages can be an asset when working with international students and scholars from various linguistic backgrounds.

– Tip: Be explicit about any language skills you have, even if they’re conversational, and connect them to your ability to serve a global population.

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How to Tailor Your Application

1. Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter:

– Show how your experiences align with ODU’s commitment to serving international students and scholars.
– Stress your ability to interpret administrative policies, work with international regulations, and support cross-cultural needs.

1. Provide Examples:

– Share specific stories or achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage workflows, communicate with diverse groups, or resolve complex issues-especially in international contexts.
– For example: Discuss how you supported international students in navigating visa processes, or how you implemented cross-border policies efficiently.

1. References from Global Work or Education:

– If possible, include references or endorsements from individuals who can speak to your cross-cultural competencies or your experience working in an international education setting.

1. Be Inclusive in Your Language:

– ODU values diversity, equity, and inclusion, so ensure your application demonstrates your commitment to these principles.

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Interview Preparation Tips

• Be ready to explain how you can contribute to ODU’s mission of providing excellent support to international students and scholars.
• Prepare examples where you successfully collaborated with individuals from diverse cultural or educational backgrounds.
• Research ODU’s VISA and Immigration Services department in advance and identify opportunities to add value to their operations.

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Salary and Next Steps

The annual starting salary for this position begins at $33,828 and is commensurate with education and experience. Applications are open from June 23, 2025, and will close on July 11, 2025. As the position is open to the general public, ensure you submit your materials on time and double-check them for accuracy.

For additional information or access needs, visit odu.edu/visa.

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A Final Note for Global Candidates

Don’t let geographic barriers or lack of citizenship deter you from applying. If your experience aligns with the role-and you have a passion for supporting international students-this could be your opportunity to make a significant difference in a multicultural academic setting.

Good luck!