International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS)
As part of the Glavin Office of Multicultural & International Education, ISSS is dedicated to providing Babson’s international student and scholar community with comprehensive advisory and support services and ensuring a smooth transition to and a successful experience at Babson.
We focus on:
- Immigration – ensuring that international students and scholars understand how to obtain a visa and maintain lawful student/scholar immigration status in the U.S.
- Employment – helping students maximize their educational experience with practical training work authorization
- Living in U.S. - helping students/scholars and their families understand how to secure a Social Security number and driver’s license/ state ID, file taxes and more.
- Academic and Social Adjustment – assisting students/scholars and their families as they transition to life at Babson College and in the U.S.
- Promoting Cross-Cultural Awareness on Campus – reinforcing self-awareness and a broad understanding of a variety of cultures as requisites to success in a global environment
- Supporting Intercultural Clubs and Organizations – showcasing our international community's unique cultures and reinforcing diversity as a crucial component of the Babson experience.
Snapshot of Babson's Current International Student Population & Growth »
Need Assistance?
Students and scholars are welcome to drop by during these times to speak with the ISSS team. No appointment is required.
Glavin Office (Hollister 220):
Mondays/Wednesdays: 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Tuesdays/Thursdays: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Olin Hall Cafe (co-advising with graduate career counselors):
Wednesdays: 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Schedule a 30-minute appointment with an ISA (at least one day in advance) by calling +1-781-239-4565. You may also email us if that is more convenient.
Meet the ISSS Team
Jamie Kendrioski, Director, International Student & Scholar Services
Jamie is responsible for providing the overall direction for ISSS activities, coordinating federal regulatory compliance for students and the College, and advising graduate and undergraduate international students and their families on student immigration issues and cultural adjustment. Before joining Babson, Jamie worked at Brown University in Rhode Island and Marietta College in Ohio. In addition to immigration advising, Jamie has extensive experience in intercultural programming and training. Jamie is a member of NAFSA: Association of International Education's Trainers Corps has conducted numerous professional workshops at the regional and national level. As an undergraduate student, Jamie participated in an education abroad program through Studio Art Centers International (SACI) in Florence, Italy. Jamie earned a Bachelor's in Public Relations and Studio Art and a Master's degree in Education, both from Marietta College.
Nikki is responsible for advising Babson’s international students on immigration issues and cultural adjustment, and assisting with federal regulatory compliance. Before coming to Babson Nikki served as the primary advisor to international students engaging in Optional Practical Training and related employment issues at Northeastern University. She was also the liaison for international parents, alumni, new students, and interdepartmental collaboration. Nikki earned a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education: Social Science at Winona State University in Minnesota and a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology: College Student Development. A pivotal moment for Nikki came when she participated in a study tour to Vietnam; this was when she recognized the value in international education.
Elizabeth Saumsiegle,
Assistant Director, International Student & Scholar Services
Elizabeth is responsible for advising Babson’s international students on immigration issues and cultural adjustment, and assisting with federal regulatory compliance. Elizabeth became interested in the field of international education as the result of her study abroad experience at Regent's College in London. She has continued to travel internationally, most recently to Hong Kong and Singapore. Elizabeth earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early American History from the University of New Hampshire and a Master’s degree in Intercultural Relations from Lesley University.
Emily Besen, Program Assistant, International Student & Scholar Services
Emily is responsible for providing administrative and programming support to the ISSS team as well as Babson’s international students. Before joining Babson, Emily worked as a Program Assistant at WorldTeach where she helped organize trips for volunteers to live and teach in developing countries. Emily’s interest in International Education has developed throughout her many experiences living, studying, and working abroad, most recently as an English teacher in South Korea. Emily earned her undergraduate degree at Muhlenberg College in Media & Communications and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Intercultural Relations at Lesley University.