GoAbroad

Staff Interview with Marina Davis

Get to know GlobalEd Abroad's staff!

Marina Davis

Marina Davis

Interviewed in 2022
Marina was born in Seville, Spain, moved to the states when she was 13, and attended high school and college in Arizona, Phoenix and Flagstaff. She started working in the study abroad field when she joined the international education department, since then she is happy to join the GlobalEd family.
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What inspired you to work for GlobalEd?

I was inspired to work here because of the work atmosphere and the eagerness of each of its team members to see a student thrive abroad. I personally identified with the value of GlobalEd and see potential for me to grow personally and professionally in this organization.

Why do you do what you do?

I am a University Relations Specialist, meaning that I contact students and faculty to see if they are interested in joining or creating a study abroad/internship or faculty-led programs. I am in charge of reaching out to new universities as well as managing the inquiries we receive. For me, it is really rewarding being part of the process of sending someone abroad. It is truly an inspirational experience.

Puente de Triana - Sevilla, España

Puente de Triana - Sevilla, España

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is being able to assist with the process of sending a student abroad. It is very exciting being able to form part of their journey and see them succeed and have fun in a new environment.

How do you use your education and international background in your current role?

In my role as a University Relations Specialist, I am able to use my background in marketing and sales to be able to promote new programs and inform students and faculty of opportunities to go abroad. I used to work in the department of international education at my alma mater, which gave me a solid foundation and preparation to take on this role.

Giralda - Sevilla, España

Giralda - Sevilla, España

What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?

It can be scary to go abroad and embark on a new adventure, but believe me it is worth it. Learning and exploring new cultures is such a rewarding experience which many people don't have the option or resources to do.

So if you have the chance and the means to do it, I would say, take this opportunity and make the best out of it! I’m also learning through my current job the importance of articulating these experiences in a resume and in interviews.

Why should someone choose GlobalEd over competitors?

I was amazed to see that GlobalEd still maintains contact with its alumni even after 10 years. From those that I spoke with they said that they feel like they belong to the GlobalEd family. While many organizations focus on the business or profit, GlobalEd measures its success on the impact its programs have had on the lives of its students.

We are encouraged to take our time with inquiring students, develop a relationship with them and have long conversations even if they have no intention to sign up. We will work with you/your family to make sure we can provide you with the best experience possible.

GlobalEd wants to keep in communication with ALL of this program participant and continues to provide support through reviewing a resume, offering to be a professional reference and even writing letters of recommendation.

What hopes do you have for the future of GlobalEd?

I can't wait until we are able to open our new locations. It will provide our students with many more options and possibilities to help them experience the world, as well as provide me with opportunities to participate in that expansion.

Plaza de España, Sevilla

Plaza de España, Sevilla

What do you hope participants take away from your programs?

The one thing I hope participants take from this program is to realize how rewarding an experience abroad can be. Here at GlobalEd, our goal is to help students step outside their circle of comfort, embrace the unknown, take on new challenges… whether they be personal, social, professional, or linguistic.

Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?

When people travel abroad and experience new cultures, they tend to learn how other people think, act and communicate, which can make them more self-aware and open minded toward those with different values in the future. It is a great way to experience new opportunities, try new foods, listen to new music, and make new connections and friendships.

Why do you think learning a new language is important?

Learning a new language can open doors for you in the future. It can be the deciding step on whether you get the job or not. But work talk aside, being able to communicate with people from other cultures in their language is such a rewarding experience. I wish everyone had the opportunity to experience this.

What does meaningful travel mean to you?

For me, meaningful travel means experiencing the local culture and taking advantage of every opportunity you have to really experience living abroad. Make memories and stories you'll one day want to share and pass on to your family and friends.

Have such an amazing experience you'll encourage others to do it as well. Make sure you look back one day and say that used to be one of the best times of my life.

How is your company handling Covid protocols? What should participants know about your Covid readiness? How are you assisting participants with navigating the new travel landscape?

The health and safety of our students is our top priority. Here at GlobalEd, we are constantly monitoring and keeping up with all the Covid stats and local requirements. We want our students to have a safe experience and will work with them to make sure that happens.

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