Academy Curriculum

NAFSA understands that each Academy trainee comes to the Academy with a different set of goals and expectations. The Academy allows for individual and flexible learning by encouraging each trainee to set personal and institutional goals to help achieve success throughout the year.

Trainees will take part in three main assignments throughout the year: an individual learning plan, a reflection paper, and a culmination paper.

Academy Schedule

As a trainee you will be expected to take part in all of the following learning opportunities in order to ensure successful completion of your learning plans.

Individual Learning Plan The foundation of each trainee's learning is set by creating a learning plan with which to prioritize personal and institutional learning objectives. The plan is developed prior to Spring training and is revised and adjusted throughout the Academy year.

Spring Training, Austin, TX (February 25-28, 2009) Join us in Austin for 3 1/2 days of intensive learning. Spring Training provides the foundation for your Academy year by providing 4 concentrated Core Education Program Workshops. Trainees gain a broad perspective of international education, network with professionals from around the country, meet face-to-face with their coaches, and solidify their learning plans.

Annual Conference, Los Angeles, CA (May 24-29, 2009) Academy trainees will have free registration to NAFSA's 61st annual conference in Los Angeles, CA. Trainees will select a complimentary, preconference workshop that supports their individual learning plans, and meet and reconnect with their coaches and fellow trainees at the Academy Event.

Reflection Paper At the midpoint of the Academy year, trainees will reflect on their progress and refocus and plan their learning with their reflection paper. Coaches will provide advice to help plan for the latter half of the year.

Fall Regional Conferences (Varies by region) Academy trainees participate in another Core Education Workshop of their choosing at the regional conference and also meet with their coach and cohort group.  A final recognition ceremony celebrates the trainees' accomplishments.

Culmination Paper Prior to receiving their certificate of completion, trainees will write a culmination paper to review their learning and progress and to identify their future path.