Hometown
Appleton, WI
Undergraduate education
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Employer
University of Wisconsin-Madison, International Academic Programs (IAP)
Job title
Study Abroad Advisor and Program Manager
What was your most meaningful experience/impactful class or faculty member during your time with the Global Higher Education program?
Professor Weijia Li makes a point to help his students develop professionally, academically, and personally, both during and after the GHE program. Once you graduate, lifelong support is truly invaluable. For example, I recently met up with Professor Li for lunch to get some advice about a session I am presenting at an upcoming Study Abroad Conference. In addition to Professor Li’s support, the courses in the GHE program offer a variety of avenues for students to explore what they are most interested in. We had courses in research methods, leadership in international education, assessment, legal aspects of higher education, critical theory, and more. I believe that these courses equipped me thoroughly for my career path, and at the same time, would be a great stepping stone for anyone who wanted to explore certain topics in more depth.
What skills did you learn about and have you found most useful? Can you describe them and how they’ve helped you?
GHE provided a uniquely rich environment for developing strong intercultural skills. Because my classmates came from such diverse backgrounds, every discussion and group project became a multifaceted learning opportunity. The program’s collaborative nature helped me strengthen my intercultural communication skills, which are essential not only in the field of international education but in many professional settings. I also gained valuable professional and networking skills, including practical experience in writing cover letters and resumes, as well as preparing for job interviews. In addition to these practical components, GHE courses also introduced me to a wide range of theoretical perspectives that expanded my thinking. This helped me develop empathy, learn to see issues from multiple viewpoints, and develop strong critical thinking skills. In my current work as a Study Abroad Advisor, these skills have proven to be incredibly valuable.
What advice do you have for someone who is considering pursuing this degree?
I highly encourage anyone considering GHE to go for it as it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made. Professor Li does a great job of looking at things holistically and helping students figure out what is best for them. I recommend reaching out to Professor Li or talking with GHE alumni. It’s truly a supportive network of people, and that sense of community is one of the best parts of the program.