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Director, International Student Center PDSO, RO

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The interviewee is the Director of an International Student Center. Their career path began with teaching English in Japan for three years, where they felt supported and welcomed as a foreigner. This experience motivated them to work in the field of student affairs and assist foreigners in the U.S. After returning to the U.S., their first job was teaching ESL, and later, they became an advisor at a university. They have held various positions in the international student affairs sector and currently serve as the Director of the International Student Center.

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The interview focused on the International Student Center (ISC) at Seattle University, a welcoming haven for the diverse international student community, bridging U.S. and global students. The ISC equips faculty and staff with essential tools to support international students in their academic, social, cultural, emotional, and spiritual journeys. Dale Watanabe serves as the ISC, where he oversees and caters to the needs of international students. They have four professional staff and six student staff, assisting international students through services like advising, status maintenance, employment support, and aiding them in acclimating to the campus and local community. By embracing the international student population, Seattle University broadens its cultural and global awareness, valuing the wealth of perspectives it brings. The university collectively strives for equity and social justice, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration among nations.

There has been a significant change in the organizational structure of the International Student Center (ISC) at Seattle University. Before the change, ISC was part of the Student Development division and was under the Academic and Student Affairs Division. However, as of July 1, the ISC transitioned to the Global Engagement division.

"About the organizational structure change, what I am hoping is that it means we will get more support and funding because one thing that has happened in the last couple of years, is we have kind of exploded as far as how many international students we have."

"Many factors influence organizational structures including institutional history and mission, governance systems, finances, strategic plans, preferences of the board and president, personnel, personalities, and politics."(Schuh et al., 2017)

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The work in International Student Programs, as described by Dale Watanabe, comes with its set of challenges and rewards. The most significant challenges faced include helping international students adapt to a new culture and environment. These challenges can involve language barriers, acclimating to a different climate, and dealing with seasonal depression in regions with gloomy winters in Seattle. Language, in particular, poses a barrier for some students, making communication and academic work more challenging. However, the rewarding aspects of their work are equally significant. One of the most rewarding aspects is creating a sense of belonging and community for international students. This sense of community helps students overcome challenges and provides a support network. Dale mentioned the importance of orientation programs, both in-person and virtual, in building this sense of community. The ISC also has implemented various programs and strategies to address these challenges, like the English Language Learning Center (ELLC), and Writing Center.

"I think the biggest thing is that just having an orientation is so important to kind of help get the students to come together, to realize there is a community here for you all, and that there is support for them, and that sometimes their peers are also really great support and maybe not even appear from the same country."

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This interview serves as a poignant reminder of the crucial role played by empathetic, culturally aware, and comprehensive support systems in higher education. It has kindled a deep-seated interest in pursuing a career in student affairs, especially in assisting international students to thrive academically and personally while bridging cultural divides. Being an international student myself, I intimately understand the labyrinthine processes and documentation involved in studying abroad, as well as the isolation and challenges one faces in a foreign country. This understanding fuels my ardent desire to immerse myself in the realm of international student affairs, where I can help fellow international students unlock their full potential and foster their all-round development.

ISC's remarkable efforts are evident in initiatives like ELLC and the Writing Center, which are dedicated to assisting international students in surmounting language barriers. Furthermore, their adoption of electronic systems and online Q&A services to enhance support for international students is indeed inspirational. In today's fast-evolving landscape, the seamless integration of traditional student affairs with modern technology is indispensable to provide superlative service.

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Increase in the number of international students

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Increase in the number of international students

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In recent years, there has been a substantial growth in international student enrollment. The numbers have surpassed 1000 active international students, a notable increase from the previous count of around 800.

"As budgets tighten and the number of high school graduates shrinks, many institutions look to international students to boost enrollments and diversify their campuses." (Schuh et al., 2017)

Schuh, J. H., Jones, S.R.,& Torres, V.(2017). Student

services: A handbook for the profession(6th ed.). Jossey- Bass, A Wiley imprint.