Inside UNB
International Student Advisor's Office Staff
Kathryn Gates - International Student Advisor
Kathryn joined UNB as the International Student Advisor in 2007, having worked with international students at the post-secondary level since 1998. Kathryn brings to the ISAO extensive cross-cultural experience not only through her work with international students, but also through personal experience having lived overseas in Uruguay and Oman, as well as having travelled extensively throughout Asia, Africa, South America, the Caribbean and Scandinavia.
Tania Serrano - International Student Resource Coordinator
Tania is originally from El Salvador and first came to Canada as an international student at UNB. Tania understands first hand the challenges and opportunities international students face in Canada and is committed to helping international students find their own path to success. Since graduating from UNB Tania has followed her passion, first by working with newcomers to Canada through the Multicultural Association of Fredericton as well as becoming involved the YMCA International Committee and then by joining the ISAO team.
Erin MacLean - Cross Cultural Program Coordinator
Erin MacLean came to the ISAO from the University of Toronto, where she worked as a Graduate Liaison Officer. Prior to completing her Master's Degree in Education at the University of Toronto, she worked for the Housing Department with the University of Waterloo and for three different campuses of UNB. Erin has traveled and worked abroad extensively, including significant international involvement with the UNB campus in China. Erin has a breadth of experience in program and policy development, student advising, and higher education. She was born and raised in New Brunswick and completed her undergraduate degree in business at UNBSJ. Most importantly, she is a passionate advocate for student success!
ISAO Peer Advisors
ISAO Peer Advisors are experienced student leaders from diverse cultural backgrounds who are trained to offer support and advice to international students at UNB. Whether you need to renew your study permit, apply for a visa or work permit, or are just looking for ways to get involved on campus and in the community, ISAO Peer Advisor's are here to assist you with the information and resources you need - and they may even speak your native language.
My name is Malcolm I grew up in Nigeria. I arrived in Canada on January 1st, 2011 to study Mechanical Engineering. To any internaitonal student, I would say: "Pursue your dreams and don't give up! Feel free to ask questions if you have a problem. Your professors will always be there to help you. Do not be afraid to ask them questions. Oh, and keep warm! It can get really cold, but don't worry you will get used to it."
Hi, my name is Meng Sun and I am from China. I arrived in Canada in September 2009 to study Business Administration. The most important advice I would give international students is: "Become involved on campus and in the community. This is the best way to meet new friends, learn about other cultures and improve your communication skills."
My name is Quang Vu. I am from Vietnam and arrived in Canada in September 2011 to study Chemical Engineering. My best advice to international students is: "Be yourself, be aware of who you are and take pride in it. Also there is a team of support on campus ready to help you from the ISAO, to your House Team in UNB Residence, to Counselling Services, to the Student Health Center, as well as other support services. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and be a part of our amazing UNB!"
My name is Soudeh. I am from Iran and arrived in Canada in September 2011 to study a PhD in Education. This is my second time living in Fredericton, I first came to Fredericton as a young girl with my family while my father studied his PhD at UNB. As an international student who grew up in Canada, I understand first-hand the challenges that international students face. If there is one thing I would do for international students it would be to make them feel welcome and encourage them to push the envelope, have fun and embrace the differences.
My name is Caroline and I am studying a double major in Mathematics and Philosophy. I was born in Canada and raised in Lebanon. I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel and live in many different places, experiencing other cultures and developing my language skills. I believe it is important to be cosmopolitan; to gather different elements from around the world. My advice for international students is to represent those things that define you and let them shine while being open to new ways of being. I am very pleased to be working with the ISAO once again.
My name is Abdualah and I am from Libya. I have over six years experience as an international student at UNB. During the past six years I have become close to the international student office staff and I deeply appreciate their help and advice. This year I am excited to be working for this office and sharing my experience with international students.
