UAlberta International has a friendly team of professionals that focus on various areas of work that support internationalization at UAlberta. Let's spend a few minutes getting to know Lubna Ahmad, International Student Specialist!
What different languages do you speak?
I am fluent in both English and Arabic. Arabic is my mother tongue and I learned English at a young age from growing up in Edinburgh, Scotland.
What special certifications do you possess that help you do your work?
I have a Masters degree in Education in Educational Studies from the University of Alberta. This has helped me learn more about adult learners in general and international students in particular; their needs, challenges they face and best-practices in supporting them within a post-secondary setting. I am also a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant and a member in good standing with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). This designation has helped me in my role as an International Student Advisor since understanding the relevant Immigration Regulations and having the authorization to be able to advise international students on those regulations is crucial in helping students maintain their legal status in Canada thus allowing them to focus on their academics.
What is your favourite space on UAlberta campuses, and why?
I love walking so I would say Saskatchewan Drive. While I can't do this now, but I have always loved to walk down Saskatchewan Drive when the weather was nice during my lunch break. The peacefulness and scenery are very relaxing and always help improve my mood so that I am able to get back to work re-energized.
What motivates you?
Having great people to work with while having the opportunity to help and support students in an attempt to alleviate some of the stress of being an international student in a foreign country is a great motivator for me.