The end of December was a bit full going into the holidays, finals ending the semester, and me transitioning into a new position at Virginia Tech. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to learn and work in Student Conduct this past fall. It gave me tremendous insight into an arm of student affairs I was previously unfamiliar. Most gratefully, it gave us a full time income with the confidence to relocate to Virginia so J could start his PhD program. While in the interim appointment, I was able to build relationships with others on campus and soon became familiar with an opening at our international center.
Through a pretty long discourse that began at the end of September, I was able to make a switch with the support of both Directors and the signature of our VP and Provost! (Gotta love the red tape at a big public institution). During the last work week of 2011 I began as Interim Assistant Director of our Cranwell Internati0nal Center. The past four weeks in the role have been a blast. I loved welcoming our 150 new international students to this semester as I jumped into Orientation this January. One of the things I love about being in this role is that while in the midst of a 28,000 + campus, I get to work in this niche of ~2,200 students. For those of you who know my heart for the small liberal arts can appreciate why this is a great fit for me.
You'll notice my appointment is Interim. I've put my application in for the full time appointment which closes out the search this Friday and they hope to move quickly through the process, deciding in early March. It is certainly helpful to be in the role now and learning the responsibilities. Meeting the students and helping them transition not just to campus but to America and hearing about their insights has been completely rewarding. I was even able to get one of the Germans to help me translate an email from family over the holidays- bonus!
Me and the Hokie Bird at new international student orientation.
Happy that you have found a new home!
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