Department Summary

The Division of Global Engagement (DGE) works to make the University of Oregon a more global university. In 21st-century higher education, international engagement is not an optional extra: as noted in UO's Academic Plan, it is a core mission, essential to a thriving, socially salient, intellectually robust, academic community. It is part of the normal functioning of every school, college, department, and center. DGE works to support and integrate the wide range of international engagements, global-scale projects, and transnational partnerships launched and maintained in our many academic units. Units within OIA consist of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), Global Education Oregon (GEO), Global Studies Institute (GSI), and Mills International Center.

The International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) unit of DGE provides a wide array of advising services and programs to international students, visiting scholars, and international faculty regarding visa and immigration matters, academic support and success, and social and cultural adjustment. Core services include immigration document processing, federal compliance and reporting, non-immigrant visa and employment advising, holistic academic and personal support, social and academic integration, outreach and advocacy, and student retention. In addition, ISSS is a partner of the Friendship Foundation for International Students (FFIS), a local community organization that coordinates short-term homestays, cultural conversations, and friendship programs. ISSS also administers over $1.5 million in scholarships and financial aid to international students.

Position Summary

The International Student and Scholar Advisor (ISSA) works with a dynamic team to support the UO’s international community and promote DGE’s mission. Reporting to the Dean and Vice Provost, this position serves as the primary International Scholar Advisor for J-1 visiting scholars. This position acts independently to evaluate visa sponsorship eligibility; create and manage event programming; and advise J-1 scholars on immigration, cross-cultural, and university matters. The ISSA works with the International Employment Specialist to run data reports, provide administrative assistance for employment-based immigration services, update web and software content, assist with online e-forms and software project implementation, and assist with the overall operations of Scholar Services. In addition, the ISSA serves as an International Student Advisor for F-1 international students, working with a team of advisors who collaboratively support and advocate for international students. This position will provide expert F and J immigration advising support, advise on employment and career options, as well as engage with international students with respect to orientation, campus integration, and student success.

This position must work collaboratively with a wide array of internal and external campus and community constituents and works autonomously with a high level of decision-making (in conjunction with the Senior Director of ISSS). The ISSA uses federal regulations as well as UO policies and procedures to guide its work.