“I believe all students deserve the support they need to be successful. In order to provide that it is imperative to understand each student’s unique needs. International students face all of the same challenges as local students, plus the additional weight of learning how to navigate new cultural expectations while still maintaining a strong sense of self.”
– Jill Haskell
Coordinator for Training and Development
Human Resources
University at Albany, SUNY
Jill’s work in Human Resources is imperative as a training and development coordinator. She is in charge of designing, implementing, and evaluating employee learning programs in order to enhance performance and support career growth. She collaborates with other department heads to assess training needs and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
Jill believes that each student and their families deserve the support and care they need in order to be successful. By understanding those needs, one can give students the confidence they need to reach their goals. Jill had often asked herself what she could do to help students and their families have more of a support system.
Jill recently joined iCEP Academy, where she has expanded her knowledge on cultural awareness and how crucial it is to have a support system when it comes to advising international students as well as domestic students. Giving her the tools to help her community.
What inspired you to join the iCEP Academy, and how do you hope it will shape your work with international students?
“As a part of my work with employees across the university, I heard the question – what can I do to help and better understand what our students and families need to feel welcome and supported in our community. I wanted to be a part of helping to answer that question.”
How has the iCEP experience so far inspired you or reinforced your passion for supporting international students?
“I love the honesty of hearing from international students and the experiences they have navigated. As a member of a community, knowing how others navigate and the challenges they have that differ from my own, helps me to be a better resource and stronger member of our university.”
What advice would you give to others thinking about joining the iCEP Academy?
“Do it! There is no time better spent than the time we spend learning how to be a stronger part of our community.”
For Jill, the community is everything as she wants to create a more welcoming and supportive space for students. Her unwavering dedication to her community is truly inspiring; it shines a light on the deep love and commitment she has for those around her.
About the Author
Marely Esperanza Pina
Marely is an English Literature major at Lake Forest College and the 2025 Fall Intern at ICAway. She brings a passion for storytelling and analysis to her writing. Marely has also played the flute for more than 12 years, a pursuit that fuels her creativity.
