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Associate Director, International Student Services

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 McEwan 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. Email Kumarie your inquiries, concerns or questions about International Student Services. 

International Student Advisor and Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)

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 since 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.

Make an appointment to connect with an advisor.

Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Sarah lived abroad for five years studying in the UK and ten years in Montreal, and yes, she speaks Québécoise fluently. She is a performance artist who loves to dance and create contemporary art installations.

Sarah's Tip: Immerse yourself in your new surroundings, practice speaking the language of the place you are visiting; you will feel more integrated and more confident about meeting new people.

Do you have a story to share? Sarah wants to hear from you! It can be about anything you have noticed since you have arrived to help fellow and future students relate to the adjustment of living in a new city/country and culture.

Do you have an event to promote? Email Sarah - she is always happy to share international students' events with the UAlberta community.

International Student Specialist and Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor (RISIA)

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 into 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 so you can fully benefit from your cross-cultural experience in Canada. Drop by to ask us any questions; we are here for you!

Make an appointment to connect with an advisor.

International Student Specialist and Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor (RISIA)

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!

Make an appointment to connect with an advisor.

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 are looking 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.