EdUp International

Unique Academic Programs in New York State with Study New York

EdUp International | Season 3, Episode 8 (Part A): Study New York Special In this special two-part series, recorded in collaboration with Study New York, we spotlight the incredible diversity of academic opportunities across New York State—and how they connect to real-world careers. In Part A, host James Shafer is joined by two outstanding guests: * Kellie Fasano from the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), who breaks down the unique value of CIA’s associate and bachelor’s degree programs—where culinary excellence meets business, innovation, and global career pathways. * Tricia Herritt from SUNY Buffalo State, who highlights standout programs in Fashion & Textile Technology, Fashion Merchandising, and Hospitality & Tourism—fields that blend creativity, industry insight, and hands-on experience. James also shares insights into Touro University’s AS in Radiologic Technology, a high-impact, career-focused program with strong employment outcomes and direct connections to leading healthcare institutions. This episode is packed with examples of how specialized programs across New York State are preparing international students for meaningful, in-demand careers. 🎧 Don’t miss Part B—coming in two weeks—where we turn the spotlight to New York’s community colleges and the powerful pathways they offer international students.

EdUp International Student & Scholar Services: Introducing a New Podcast Section of EdUp International

In this episode of the EdUp International podcast, we introduce you to the hosts of the new exciting segments of the show: EdUp International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)—where today you'll meet the hosts of EdUp ISSS—and of EdUp International Enrollment Management (IEM) that will continue to be hosted by James Shafer. New EdUp-ISSS hosts Jennifer Kenyon (SUNY Geneseo) and Tricia Herritt (SUNY Buffalo State) share their journeys into international education and discuss the critical role student services teams play in helping international students succeed on campus and how to navigate the complicated regulations that govern their status. The conversation explores Jennifer's and Tricia's study abroad experiences, mentoring in the profession, global travel, how international student services have evolved over the past two decades, and resources like Globe Trotters United and NAFSA knowledge communities. Listeners will also hear about: * Creating global citizens through campus engagement * International buddy and community programs that help students feel welcome before and after arrival * The evolution of international student & scholar services (ISSS), and receive career & networking tips for new professionals Whether you work in international admissions, student services, regulations & advising, or cover all three, this episode provides insight into the people and programs that make international education possible. It’s a great conversation about the people and programs supporting international students on campus. Listen now and share with colleagues in international education! #EdUpInternational #InternationalEducation #GlobalCampus #StudentSuccess

Supporting Global Talent in Tech with Leanne McKeown

What does it take to connect international tech talent with U.S. employers? In this episode of EdUp International, James Shafer talks with Leanne McKeown, Director of Corporate Outreach & Career Development at Touro University’s Graduate School of Technology. Leanne shares her own bold move—studying abroad in the Philippines—and how that experience shaped her passion for helping international students succeed in the U.S. job market. Through career fairs, alumni mentoring, networking panels, and corporate outreach, Leanne builds bridges between global talent and industry. She also educates employers about Curricular Practical Training (CPT) internships and Optional Practical Training (OPT) post-graduation opportunities, while guiding students through cultural competency challenges like resumes, interviews, and LinkedIn profiles. What you’ll learn in this episode: ✔ How Touro prepares international students for U.S. hiring norms ✔ Employer outreach strategies for CPT/OPT-friendly roles ✔ Alumni mentoring and networking that drive real results ✔ Cultural competency tips for resumes, interviews, and networking ✔ Trends in tech hiring for global talent Explore Touro GST Career Services: 👉 https://gst.touro.edu/career-services/index.php Tune in to #EdUpInternational for Season 2, Episode 6! Subscribe now and look for new episodes twice a month. Connect with YOUR EdUp International and EdUp Team - ⁠⁠James Shafer⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Elvin Freytes⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠Dr. Joe Sallustio⁠⁠. Join YOUR EdUp community at ⁠⁠The EdUp Experience⁠⁠!

International House Philadelphia: Building Global Community Locally

In this episode of EdUp International, host James Shafer heads to the City of Brotherly Love — Philadelphia — to explore how one organization is helping international students not just study in the U.S., but belong here. James is joined by Marissa Amos, Community Engagement Manager at International House Philadelphia (IHP), a long-standing hub for cultural exchange and global connection. This conversation dives into how IHP supports international students, scholars, and employers in building an inclusive and globally connected region. * Community & Belonging: How IHP’s programs — from shared cultural celebrations to student gatherings and mentorship — create a home away from home for international residents. * Career Pathways & Global Talent: IHP’s partnerships with employers, universities, and organizations like Campus Philly and the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce that help employers understand CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT — and open new doors for international graduates. * Regional Advocacy: How IHP collaborates across the Greater Philadelphia region to strengthen its global talent ecosystem, especially in the life sciences and medical sectors. * A Personal Story: Marissa shares how hiking pushed her to confront fear and discover resilience — a perfect metaphor for the international experience itself. * Community building starts with listening, shared experiences, and genuine cultural exchange. * Educating employers about how to engage talent through the Curricular Practical Training and Optional Practical Training programs is key to unlocking regional economic potential. * Philadelphia’s “eds and meds” sector provides fertile ground for global talent retention. * Every city can learn from IHP’s model of collaboration between higher education, business, and community organizations. 🌐 Website: www.ihphilly.org [https://www.ihphilly.org] Listen and subscribe to EdUp International wherever you get your podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, or Google Podcasts. #EdUpInternational #InternationalEducation #GlobalTalent #StudyInTheUSA #OPT #STEM #CareerDevelopment #Philadelphia #HigherEducation #CommunityBuilding #TouroUniversity

International Credential Evaluation Roundtable with Study New York Part 2

In part 2 of this special Study New York edition of The EdUp International Podcast, we continue the discussion about international credential evaluation. Host James Shafer moderates a thoughtful discussion with three higher ed experts: 🎓 Jennifer Kenyon – Assistant Director of International Admissions, SUNY Geneseo 🎓 Cynthia Yu – Assistant Director of International Admissions, University at Buffalo 🎓 Freddy Cicchetti – Director of International Admissions, Long Island University Together, they share deep insights on how institutions evaluate academic records from around the world — and how these decisions impact international enrollment and student success. 💡 Topics covered in Part 2: * Resources: Training–NAFSA’s Essentials of International Credential Evaluation and AACRAO The International Series; Databases–AACRAO Edge, Scholaro’s GPA Calculator, NCAA Guide to International Academic Standards * Assessing Fraud, Verifying Credentials, and When to Require an External Credential Evaluation as Back-Up * Options for refresher courses * Agents providing a credential evaluation service for applicants from specific universities * Backlogs and communicating with medical school admission committees about backlogs 🎙️ Whether you’re from a large research university or a small community college, this conversation offers practical wisdom and policy-level clarity on how to design a credential evaluation process that truly fits your institution’s mission. 📅 Thank you Study New York and our expert panel! 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. 🔗 https://www.edupexperience.com/p/edupinternational/ #EdUpInternational #StudyNewYork #HigherEd #CredentialEvaluation #InternationalAdmissions #WES #AACRAO #Backlogs #StudyConsortia #InternationalStudents