What position do you hold at Study in Belize? What has been your career path?
I am the Program Manager for TEP. I am primarily responsible for establishing and maintaining institutional partnerships; as well as marketing our programs to prospective college students and professionals from various fields.
I began my career in Higher Education Administration in Student Affairs at the University of Illinois over fifteen years ago. Since that time, I have held leadership positions in Student Affairs, Admissions and International Affairs. I enjoy working with college-aged students. And, I am especially inspired by some students’ resiliency to achieve and grow despite hardships in their lives.
What country have you always wanted to visit and why?
This is difficult to pick just one country! But I will say Barbados as being one of my top three choices. Barbados is a beautiful Caribbean Island, but also boasts one of the highest literacy rates in the World. Education is one of the top priorities for the people in the country of Barbados.
Why is language learning and cultural immersion important to you?
I view Language and Culture Immersion as one of the lifelines to humanity. It is a humbling experience to open one’s self to the language, customs and beliefs of another group of people for the sole purposes of learning and appreciation. The tapestry of world cultures is vast and rich in opportunities to grow and expand one’s worldview.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
One of the values of TEP is providing excellent customer service to our participants. As a result, I have become more detailed oriented. I have learned that when you, as a service provider, ensure that all the needs and program goals have been met for a participant; then the participant is free to completely immerse themselves in the international experience for maximum returns to both the participant and our country.
When have you felt especially proud to be part of the Study in Belize team?
I have been especially proud to be a part of the TEP team at a recent Study Abroad Fair in the United States. Our marketing and promotional materials really stood out in the room of many other service providers and institutions. Our vibrant colors, professional packets and program flyers attracted the fair attendees to our table to find out more about our programs and Belize!