A s rep resentatives of the International Student Advisory Board , we want to reach out to the Penn community in response to two guest columns, namely those authored by Ghinwa Moujaes (Sept. 28, 2014) and Sean Massa (Oct. 4, 2014) , published by The Daily Pennsylvanian over the last few weeks. In both columns, students describe how they have been let down as members of Penn’s internationally minded community, whether as an international student or as a student interested in international opportunities.
We are pleased that students have chosen to share their perspectives via the DP, and we encourage all students to make their voices heard in whichever way makes them feel most comfortable. We want all members of Penn’s internationally minded community to know that ISAB is another venue for you to share your thoughts.
ISAB is a University-wide organization representing all members of Penn’s internationally minded community, whether undergraduate or graduate, from all 12 schools. We have been active for the last eight years under the stewardship of International Student and Scholar Services Director Rudie Altamirano , working with administrators to shape policy and enhance international student welfare here at Penn. We are generously supported by Penn Global and Vice Provost for Global Initiatives Zeke Emanuel . We would like to thank both Penn Global and ISSS for their contributions to our work and continuous efforts to improve the international student experience.
We are here to serve all members of the internationally minded community by working to improve international student policy. We are dedicated to taking on the commitment of working to make the international student experience the best it can be. Furthermore, as we work closely with offices across campus, we are strongly equipped with the connections to enact change for students. We always want to hear from Penn’s internationally minded community to shape our focus, direct our efforts and ensure we work toward what is truly important.
In order to gather feedback from this community, we will be holding a Town Hall meeting in November. Details of the event will be publicized soon. You will all be welcome to share your thoughts and tell us what is important to you so that we can work to improve your experience at Penn.
What is important to you is important to all of us, and the important things should not wait. That’s why you should feel free to email us — penn.isab@gmail.com — and ISSS Director Rudie Altamirano — rudiea@upenn.edu — at any time.
Let’s engage in dialog and make sure that every student’s voice is heard.
With hope and gratitude,
Benjamin Partridge, G raduate Chair, ISAB
Erica Aduh, Undergraduat e Chair, ISAB
