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As my name might suggest, I come from somewhere else; in fact, I came to Alberta almost 30 years ago as an international student from Trinidad and Tobago. So, I truly understand what it is like to feel homesick, not have enough money, to work three jobs while maintaining a high GPA. I know what it is like to graduate with success, volunteer, parent, and negotiate the milieu of Canadian life. I have a certificate in Management Studies from Grant MacEwan College, a BA (Hons.) in Political Science from the University of Alberta, and certificates in Intercultural Communications from the Intercultural Communication Institute, in Portland, Oregon. Over the past 16 years, I built sound knowledge and skills in developing programs and teaching courses in intercultural communication education and human resources development and international student programs and advising.

To contact Gretchen, please email gretchen.phillips@ualberta.ca

Lubna Ahmad grew up in Scotland and has spent her adult life as a teacher and educator in Canada and the United Arab Emirates for over 20 years. She is fluent in English and Arabic. Through her Master of Education studies at the University of Alberta, Lubna realized her passion for working and helping international students. She achieved this in her current position after completing her degree in 2009. Lubna's goal is to build lasting relationships and trust with all students she meets.

Lubna's Tip: Don't isolate yourself and think you have to solve your problems on your own. Start building your support system and network by making new friends and building professional relationships with your teachers and advisors, especially at the International Services Centre. Know that we are here to support you, help you navigate your academic environment, and guide you to the university's relevant resources.

Xiaobing was born and raised in China. She worked as an Assistant Professor of English in two Chinese universities for 12 years before studying and working at UAlberta. She brings rich experiences to her current work as an international student advisor. Her own experience as an international student gives her a full appreciation of international students' excitement and challenges. Her patient, passionate and deeply caring temperament will make each of your visits a pleasant one.

Xiaobing's Tip: Be proactive, be confident, and always be ready to move beyond your comfort zone to benefit from your cross-cultural experience in Canada fully. Drop by to ask us any questions; we are here for you

Caroline has worked with students in International Education for over ten years. She studied abroad as a graduate student in the UK and loves working with students.

Caroline's Tip: Get involved as much as possible. It can be really overwhelming in a new country, city and school, but the more you get involved and meet other international and domestic students, the easier your transition will be. Access all of the services that are available to you. From the Student Success Centre to Campus Recreation, make the most of the available services to help you succeed at UAlberta!

To contact Wei, please email weidavid@ualberta.ca

Meet International Student Specialist, Hesam Nejad. Originally from Iran, after completing his Phd in Engineering at Memorial University Hesam leaped into the world of student services with the Graduate Students’ Union at Memorial University, so ask him about moving across Canada and living in winter climes. Hesam says," I realized my true passion is for working with international students and in international education. Since then, I have changed my entire career to become an RCIC and student advisor." Hesam brings to us his expertise in teaching, his experiences navigating the world of graduate studies, and his passion for working with international students. He is fluent in Farsi and is conversant in Arabic.

Ravneet was born and raised in India. She has been working in the immigration field since 2012 and she loves assisting international students and their families. Her personal experience of moving to Canada, along with her professional expertise, allows her to understand student issues from a closer perspective. She is always ready to go the extra mile to make the student experience a positive one.

Ravneet's Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and utilize all the amazing resources offered at the University of Alberta. Our team is here to help, so please do not hesitate to reach out to ask for any assistance. If there is anything we can do to support you, please let us know.

Gavin has a Master's degree in Intercultural and International Communication and is a self-proclaimed student of perspective. He lived, worked and travelled for ten years in Asia and has a background in education and international tourism. Gavin enjoys camping, reading and spending time with his family; He also enjoys finding new unique craft beers and drinking them with interesting company.

Gavin's Tip: People act and react according to their own cultural value sets, values that are perceived as positive. When others' actions and/or reactions do not align with your expectations or seem to conflict with your values or priorities, the presumption of goodwill and open communication can often diffuse what can sometimes be a frustrating situation.

If you want to participate in one of our student activities or have an idea, suggestion or question, please feel free to contact me; maybe we can share perspectives.

Email Gavin for settlement and orientation information.

To contact Heather, please send email at seylmiya@ualberta.ca