What inspired you to join the Study Abroad team at Edge Hill University?
I fell in love with Edge Hill as a Study Abroad student in 2013—once I arrived on campus, I never wanted to be anywhere else. Everyone I met was amazing and incredibly keen on my experience being the best that it could be. When a position opened up as I graduated university, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to apply so that I could pass on that feeling of inclusion and wonder.
The Main Building on Edge Hill’s Campus
Can you tell us about your role as the North American Study Abroad Recruiter?
I’m primarily responsible for recruiting study abroad students. I travel up to 100 days out of the year and spend time all across the North American region. I spend most of my time in the United States, but also spend some time in Canada if I’m able. I do a lot with Social Media in order to further the recruitment process as well as to promote all of the amazing things that Edge Hill has to offer.
Also, I oversee the application process. If there is an application to our study abroad program from North America, it crosses my desk. I ensure that students have filled out the application correctly, have completed each part to the application, and have chosen the correct courses. This saves time for our Home Office as well as for the student, so that the process is smooth and efficient—it isn’t always, but I try my best!
How does your expertise in Social Media and Marketing, and Student and Partner Relations influence your work today?
My past work has given me the foundation on which my work is built on. I’ve been very lucky to have had experience in the field as a student before entering the workforce. While I’ve learned a lot in my past positions, it has given me a launchpad to find new ways to grow and challenge myself today.
In the doorway of The Smallest House in Great Britain during my Study Abroad trip in 2013
What qualities make the ideal study abroad student?
An ideal study abroad student is made up of the following qualities: adventurous, patient, calm, adaptable, inventive, independent, observant, and resourceful.
Do you have any advice for students on the fence about studying abroad?
First: DO IT. It is absolutely terrifying and you’re probably going to be homesick; but it is worth every second and every tear and every penny.
Second: Do your research. Find a program that is the best fit for you, for your personality, and for your major. If you don’t like large, crowded cities, you may want to avoid studying in places like London, Paris, Berlin, San Paulo, etc. If you’re an English Literature Major, perhaps studying in Japan isn’t the best fit.
Third: Cost isn’t everything, but it is definitely a major thing. If you’re uncomfortable with the price, look around for a similar program at a lower cost. Always look to see what is included in the price that you’re given. Is it just tuition or is room & board included? Do they include airfare? What about WiFi? Your books? You get the gist.
How did your own study abroad experience influence you to begin working in international education?
When I first arrived on Edge Hill’s campus in 2013, I was very lost and confused. It took quite a while for me to feel comfortable and to get my bearings. The International Office was instrumental in helping me get organized and adjusted. When I left, one of the things that I knew that I would miss the most was the International Office. I owed them so much. Much of the success of my travels, education, and adventures were from advice they had given to me.
When I was invited to be a member of the Indiana State Study Abroad Office staff as a Student Worker when I returned home, I jumped at the chance. I hoped to emulate the individuals who had helped me at Edge Hill. As soon as I helped my first student find a successful path to their own study abroad adventure, I knew that I was on the path that I’d never look back from.
Head of North American Operations Jason Keeling learning how to use the CAGE VR systems on Edge Hill’s campus
If you could study abroad again, where would you go and why?
If I could study abroad again, I’d make the same choice. I chose Edge Hill because of the course offerings that would fit in my college plan, as well as the cost that was reasonably in my budget. I also have little language experience, so going somewhere that had a language barrier was intimidating to me.
What are common concerns of potential study abroad students and how do you help the students overcome these concerns and fears?
Many students are concerned about homesickness and traveling. For many students, this is the first time that they have ever left the country and been very far away from their family. I normally share my own experiences with homesickness and tell them how I overcame the issues that I experienced, and give different resources for students who are very concerned.
Financial aid is also a common concern. We try to make our programs as affordable as possible. I also share financial aid opportunities with students that are available through their home institutions as well as through other channels.
Why is it important for individuals to travel and experience new cultures?
It’s important for individuals to travel and experience new cultures because it helps you become a better person. Experiencing new things allows for personal change and growth—you never know who you might become afterwards.
Laying in a field of daffodils in Dublin, Ireland with Jessica Fairfax.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means being patiently open to everything. You never know what you’re going to walk into when you’re traveling. Even if you’re a meticulous planner and have the entire schedule down to the second, there is always a chance of something going wrong or catching your eye.
Travel is chaotic and imperfect; there will be delays and cancellations and a ton of time waiting in lines. The restaurant you scoped out may not be open on Mondays or closes before 6:00 p.m. But all of that means that you may have an extra day in Rome where you eat pasta overlooking the Colosseum in a downpour or have pancakes in a little village outside of Amsterdam. You never know what you’re going to be able to find.
What hopes do you have for the future of study abroad at Edge Hill University?
I hope that we continue to grow in our mission to further international education. While no system is perfect, our goal at the end of every day is to provide a one-of-a-kind international experience for every student, whether they’re with us for a day, a year, or their entire degree. My hope is that we will continue to strive, for meaningful, multi-layered partnerships across the globe that cross divides, inspire conversations, and plant seeds for the future of global humanity.
