NAFSA is now accepting applications for the Academy for International Education Class 9, which will begin in January 2012. Academy trainees receive coaching from an experienced NAFSAn, training in a variety of areas in international education, a wide range networking opportunities, broadened awareness of professional resources, and increased knowledge of the field of international education. In a way, the Academy serves as a sort of ‘jump start’ for professionals new to the field of international education.
In the four years that I have been involved in the Academy, I have spoken with many supervisors of Academy trainees. These colleagues have consistently commented on the many benefits of Academy participation for their staff member, their office and even their institution. Academy trainees develop the skills and confidence they need to take on additional responsibilities, provide increased leadership, and expand their professional network – all to the benefit of their office and their institution. The many learning opportunities trainees have in the Academy expose trainees to best practices in the field of internationaleducation. Many supervisors have shared with me that their staff member was able to use this information to enhance their work at their institution and to develop new initiatives. Supervisors also report that Academy trainees often demonstrate an increased commitment to the field of international education and an interest in further training and education opportunities.
Please take a minute to think about the new professionals on your staff and in our field. Would they benefit from the Academy? What about your colleagues at other institutions? Do they have staff members who would benefit from the Academy? If so, please encourage them to apply for the Academy. You can find more information about the Academy, including the application, at http://www.nafsa.org/events.sec/academy_main/
Applications are due December 1, 2011.
Krista McCallum Beatty directs international student and faculty services at Ohio University. In this role she advises international students, scholars, faculty, and staff on many different immigration and cultural issues, advises the International Student Union, and directs a very busy office. She has also worked in education abroad, including a stint as a resident director. McCallum Beatty enjoys interacting with the many different people she meets through her work and believes international education is a transformative experience for all involved, including her. Having been a coach twice, she thinks the Academy is a great program and is excited to be serving as the chair for the Academy.