How did you become involved with Middlesex University? What inspired you to work there?
I began working at Middlesex University as a result of studying there. I started by doing very basic part-time work for the international recruitment team while I was simultaneously completing my master’s degree in Marketing Communications. I began to grow in responsibilities and after the completion of my programme, I was offered a full-time job. The added value I can give to students is that I know exactly how it feels to go through the application process and I was in their shoes not too long ago, so I am able to sympathize with them and offer the appropriate guidance and assistance.
During a recruitment trip in Toronto, I took a day trip to explore Niagara Falls.
What is your favorite part of living in London?
London is a beautiful city. I enjoy the multicultural aspect of it and how no matter what your lifestyle is, you can always feel at home in London. However, I would say without a doubt my favorite part of living in London is that although it is not geographically in the center of Europe, it sure feels like the center of it.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?
Without a doubt, the most fulfilling aspect of my job is being able to help students. The joy I feel when I’m able to help a student get an unconditional offer or solve a complicated case is like a personal victory. Reading a student’s gratitude email feels better than a “good job” from my manager.
In Dubai desert
How have your past travels and study abroad experiences influenced the work you do today?
As an international student recruiter, I have to travel to many of the cities where most of our students come from. And as a former international student, I can predict an applicant’s questions and struggles. I am able to understand a Colombian student’s struggle with achieving the right English score in the same way I can empathize with a student from the US who wants to transfer their credits to Middlesex University.
Can you tell us more about your role in the process of international student recruitment, and how you support these students?
I basically help students throughout the whole process: from the moment they find out about the university to the moment they arrive on campus. I am the person they meet at a booth in a college fair, as well as the person behind some in-country marketing activities. I am also responsible for identifying possible scholarship providers and initiating agreements between colleges and Middlesex University. Some of the daily activities include answering student, parent and counsellor concerns, liaising with admissions, evaluating scholarship recipients and helping students go through the various steps of the application process.
What advice do you have for first-time travelers to London?
Bring an umbrella because you never know when the weather might change. Let me take this moment to clarify: it does not always rain! That’s a myth! What can happen is it might rain one day, and the next will be bright and sunny.
Are there any challenges of life in London that international students should be aware of?
I think the same challenges apply to most cities. London is a very multicultural and internationally focused city, and you will find many international students and professionals around. Depending on where you come from, the challenge might be the weather or the time zone difference from home.
This is not in Japan, it’s at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens in New York City.
Why should future students be excited to attend Middlesex University?
I cannot guarantee what their future will be like, but each time I catch up with a student who has completed their programme, it is evident how their lives have changed for the better. Not only do they have a British degree, but they have international study and work experience, they are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in their careers. That is exciting!
How do you think students benefit from traveling abroad?
Traveling opens your mind; it allows you to think outside the box. It shows you that it’s not about you but about everyone else. It allows you to develop a strong understanding of others and that only makes you richer as a person.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is meant to teach.