Via Voices

About Via Voices

This is Via Voices, the podcast that brings you insights from the champions of international education. I’m your host Brooke Roberts, and together, we’ll uncover the stories behind impactful global learning experiences and the professionals who make them possible.

Publisher

Brooke Roberts

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

1 May 2025

Latest episode

14 Aug 2025

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Aug 2025

   Tech Savvy & Strategy Focused: AIEA President Tackles Top Higher Ed Issues

   Higher education advances technology, strategy, and career development on the academic side, but the administration side tells a different story. Paulo Zagalo-Melo, the newly-appointed President of AIEA and the Senior Internationalization Strategist at VCU, sees a new frontier for international education: one that embraces technology to make strategic decisions and that advocates for university faculty to develop into the next generation of global education leaders. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:58] AIEA Strategic Plan: Embarking on new pathways for global ed leaders [03:48] From Accountant to Education: Paulo’s journey to higher education in Portugal & the US [09:13] New Role at VCU: Complimenting SIOs & enrollment advisors as a strategist [12:56] Becoming Tech Savvy: How vital technology is in modern day higher education [16:27] Challenge of Fear: International education is at risk of a panic-driven decision [21:40] Rapid Fire Questions: Paulo talks personal passions & professional hopes Guest Spotlight Paulo Zagalo-Melo: Paulo Zagalo-Melo has exercised leadership in executive higher education administration positions for thirty years. He is the President of AIEA - the Association of International Education Administrators and is the Senior Internationalization Strategist for Virginia Commonwealth University. Paulo’s former roles include being the Associate Provost for Global Education at Western Michigan University, the Associate Provost for Global Education, Director of the Global Engagement Office, and Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Montana. Paulo has a Ph.D. in Political Science from the Catholic University of Portugal (2012), and a Master in Public Administration degree from Harvard University (2004). Key Takeaways: President of AIEA: “We want to show the leaders of international education where we go from here.” As the newly elected President of AIEA, Paulo is involved in their recent strategic planning and the organization’s newer focus on career pathways. For SIOs and aspiring international educators, AIEA wants to bring strong networking and professional development opportunities to create more leaders and inspire career advancements. Senior Internationalization Strategist at VCU: “I add the strategic element and level that SIOs do not have the time to get to.” In a new contracted position at VCU, Paulo brings his experience as a former Provost to expand on strategic initiatives. VCU and other universities often struggle with the capacity of their international education team, and Paulo’s position adds capacity for faculty while enhancing strategic goals for the university. Technology Integration in Higher Education: “Higher education institutions advance technology on the academic side, but on the administrative side, we’re very slow at absorbing.” No matter what role Paulo is taking on, technology is his top priority to deliver data-driven results with a level of excellence. Amongst his more technology-cautious colleagues, Paulo aims to be technology savvy and constantly seeks ways to improve his data for better decision making. Resources Mentioned: AIEA | aieaworld.org, Virginia Commonwealth University | vcu.edu Connect with Paulo: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Support Via Voices by subscribing on YouTube: youtube.com/@viatrm Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/via-voices Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3R0BcoxUC6Xzr1SW7CCT2t

2. 

   7 Aug 2025

   All About Opportunity: Dawn Wood Talks Dissertation on International Ed at Community College

   Assumptions are often made about the types of students who participate most in international education, mostly regarding background and income. Many colleges assume that students more active in family and employment have less capacity for or interest in global education opportunities. Dawn Wood, Dean of Global Learning at Kirkwood Community College, has found in her career experiences and through her conducted research that international education programs are valued and positively impactful when made accessible and available to students of all backgrounds. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:23] Farm to College: How Dawn found international education & returned to Iowa [04:59] Exploring Interculturality: Student data-driven study for Dawn’s PhD dissertation [12:24] Media Circus: Colleges impacted by policy uncertainty & media confusion [17:23] Rapid Fire Questions: Dawn talks traveling, visiting Ghana, & VISA requirements Guest Spotlight Dawn Wood: Dawn Wood is the Dean of Global Learning at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dawn is passionate about community college internationalization and the importance of global learning for all students. She has published her dissertation and many journal articles about the positive impact of global learning on all students. She strives to create opportunities for all to engage in intercultural dialogue that will lead to a more peaceful world. Key Takeaways: International Ed, Local Impact: “You can see the immediate impact. So many of our students are integrated into the community and can take what they learned immediately into what they do everyday.” At Kirkland, Dawn sees firsthand the impact of international education in all its forms and feels as if community colleges are open to taking full advantage of global education opportunities beyond just study abroad programs. Demographics in International Ed: “If the opportunity is there for them and it makes sense for them, [students] are going to take it.” For her PhD dissertation, Dawn surveyed and spoke to students across demographics on their international education and study abroad experiences (including virtual exchange) at Kirkwood. Shockingly, even those thought to be in disadvantaged demographics (i.e. low income) took advantage of global learning and felt its impact positively. Managing Media Confusion: “I would say the media and how things are being portrayed, you just feel like, ‘What’s coming next?’” In the midst of massive policy changes in the US, Dawn is concerned with how the media portrays international education and higher education. She feels as if many outlets aren’t talking to those working in the education industry and are portraying issues without a well-rounded perspective. Resources Mentioned: Kirkwood Community College | kirkwood.edu Connect with Dawn:  LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Support Via Voices by subscribing on YouTube: youtube.com/@viatrm Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/via-voices Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3R0BcoxUC6Xzr1SW7CCT2t

3. 

   31 Jul 2025

   Maintain Your “Why”: Dr. Fabiola Riobe Keeps True on Her Dedication to Higher Ed

   When you think about study abroad or international students, do you think about community colleges? After 2 years in her position at Kansas City Kansas Community College, Dr. Fabiola Riobe has seen more than 200 international students arrive on campus and has launched the college’s first study abroad program in Peru. Fabiola isn’t afraid to embrace non-traditional students in her quest to make education a global experience for all— in fact, she’s excited to leverage brand new pathways and take KCK around the world. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:01] Family Background to Career Inspiration: Fabiola’s first generation American experience [03:54] KCK Ecosystem in International Ed: Non-traditional student pathways in learning [07:55] Sharing Curriculum Through Tech: COIL & a global approach to education experiences [10:12] Maintaining the “Why”: Keep community during political & social challenges [15:47] Rapid Fire Questions: Fabiola talks ROI, workforce development, & cultural immersion Guest Spotlight Fabiola Riobe:  Dr. Fabiola Riobe is the Vice President for Educational Innovation and International Programs at Kansas City Kansas Community College. She is an accomplished international executive, industry expert, and education advocate passionate about promoting entrepreneurship and social impact. Dr. Riobe is a pioneer alum of the African Women's Economic Consortium, facilitating workshops and thought circles to promote socio-economic development and leadership cultivation. Featured in the Center for Global Enterprise (CGE) for her outstanding contributions to business incubators, Fabiola is the founder and CEO of Kids Global University, committed to preparing youth to be civically engaged through global competency development. Her outstanding work has earned her international recognition, including the 2023 Women of Leadership and Vision Award. Key Takeaways: Past Experiences, Present Impact: “I wanted to be in a space to leverage myself and my experience to make a positive impact.” As a child of immigrants with a background in business, Fabiola brings a perspective to the international education industry that focuses on students as individuals. Each path to a well-rounded education may look different for each student, and Fabiola feels empowered watching her Community College embrace internationalization. Community College Meets International Ed: “We really focus on attracting all populations and giving them a quality education that can take them wherever they want to go.” Community College students come from all age groups, financial statuses, and living situations. Fabiola wants students at KCK to feel like they can access innovative and international education regardless of how non-traditional their education journey may be. Current Issues, Future Solutions: “Why I do this work has been crystal clear and crystalized for so long that now it's all about being agile and pivoting.” When political and social climates demand that colleges change, Fabiola maintains her “why”. With a strong sense of what’s right and a clear motivation to better the lives of students in community college, Fabiola doesn’t let present day political strife become an obstacle to her and her students’ success. Resources Mentioned: Kansas City Kansas Community College | kckcc.edu Connect with Fabiola: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Support Via Voices by subscribing on YouTube: youtube.com/@viatrm Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/via-voices Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3R0BcoxUC6Xzr1SW7CCT2t

4. 

   24 Jul 2025

   Doubling International Students: How VCU Plans to Expand Global Education with Jill Blondin

   Navigating uncertainties in the international world doesn’t have to halt study abroad or international student programs. Jill Blondin, Vice Provost for Global Initiatives at Virginia Commonwealth University, brings her expertise in leadership and global education to the forefront of today’s conversation about opening students’ minds and balancing politics and compliance without closing your university off from international opportunities. As VCU aims to double their international student enrollment, Jill talks global strategy, data-driven initiatives, and student-centered programming. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:13] Why Higher Ed? Jill’s first study abroad experience & how it shaped her career [05:24] Doubling International Students: How VCU measures global education success [10:24] How Data Tells the Story: Compliance, reporting & international ed metrics [13:43] Balancing Uncertainty Abroad: Politics, reactivity & staying student-centered [15:54] Faculty vs Administrative: Education industry from multiple roles & perspectives [21:43] Rapid Fire Questions: Jill talks travel, entertainment, careers & advice Guest Spotlight Jill Blondin: Jill Blondin an entrepreneurial, innovative leader and faculty member with more than 22 years of experience in higher education. Currently, Jill leads and coordinates international activities as the Vice Provost for Global Initiatives for Virginia Commonwealth University. Previously, Jill served as the inaugural director of VCU Globe, a global education living-learning program devoted to building cultural agility. Under her leadership, VCU Globe received the 2015 NAFSA Senator Paul Simon Spotlight Award and the 2018 Andrew Heiskell Award from the Institute of International Education (IIE). Jill has also served as a Fulbright Specialist to Brazil (2018), as a speaker with the U.S. Department of State Study Abroad Engagement Grant Program and Fulbright Portugal (2019), the U.S. Embassy Guyana (2022), Fulbright Philippines (2024), and the U.S. Embassy Turkey (2024). Key Takeaways: We’re Better When We Experience the World: “I made it my mission that if I am ever in the position as a faculty member, to open up the world, just as I had my world opened up by the study abroad experience.” While getting her graduate in art history, Jill experienced study abroad for the first time and fell in love with international education. This experience not only inspired her to further study abroad, but to also embrace a global education career. Optimizing Efforts in Global Education: “We don’t need a mini international VCU; what we need is to collaborate and support our students.” When working with international students and with returning study abroad students, Jill and her team in the Global Education Office at VCU have been very proactive in collaborating with other faculty and departments to limit duplicate and unnecessary efforts. Navigating the Unprecedented: “I think it’s incumbent on us to continue to show strong leadership and support for international initiatives, and to believe in the work we do.” When it comes to responding to new administration and increased awareness of global politics, Jill is firm in her belief that international education needs strong leaders who won’t be overly reactive and will guide students and faculty towards solutions that strengthen programming. Resources Mentioned: Virginia Commonwealth University | vcu.edu Connect with Jill: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Support Via Voices by subscribing on YouTube: youtube.com/@viatrm Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/via-voices Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3R0BcoxUC6Xzr1SW7CCT2t

5. 

   17 Jul 2025

   International Education Needs a Better Story: Emily Merson Talks Advocacy & Access

   The positive impacts of international education on career readiness and student success are well-known in the industry, but lack understanding and support on a governmental level. Funding barriers keep students from studying abroad and policy uncertainties harm international students learning in the US. Emily Merson, global leader and entrepreneur, wants international education to tell a better story: one where the benefits and positives of well-rounded learning experiences are supported and understood by stakeholders and everyday individuals alike. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:00] The Reluctant Entrepreneur: Global background & career inspiration [02:44] Career Readiness vs Funding Challenges: International ed challenges on all levels [05:20] Telling a Better International Ed Story: Surviving existential threats with a new voice [10:58] Professional Mentorship: Leveraging skills to coach professional growth [13:27] Rapid Fire Questions: Emily talks mindfulness, access, awareness, & entrepreneurship Guest Spotlight Emily Merson: Emily Merson is a highly accomplished and results-oriented global leader with a proven track record of driving innovation, leading global initiatives, and implementing transformational change for US and global universities. Her expertise is in executive leadership, strategic planning, innovation, business development, sustainability, program development, business for good, cross-cultural collaboration, and building high-performing happy teams. In her most recent position at AIFS Abroad (2021-2025), Emily’s leadership and strategic vision have steered her US-based team during a period of rapid change and merging of two leading global education organizations. The last 5 years of her career have been focused on building guiding values and excellence in academics and outcomes for a new organization. Key Takeaways: Funding Woes: “I think the biggest challenge that everyone is facing is scarcity of funding, and who is responsible for fixing that challenge for students and universities.” As international education continues to evolve, Emily sees both struggles and victories on the horizon in regards to funding and scholarships. Emily hopes that companies like AIFS Abroad are seen as partners to universities and students, united under one goal to further access and affordability. Existential Threats: “What we need is a way better story [in international education] about who we really are and what we do.” As international policies change and funding freezes, navigating 2025 is a major test for international education as an industry. Emily and like-minded global education professionals are seeking to unite efforts and convey the value of international education to impact policies and keep international and abroad students safe. Growth Mindset: “It took me 10 years to get anyone to listen to me, and I hope that’s not the case any more [in education].” International education has a scarcity mindset crisis and a serious need for innovation. Emily hopes that upcoming entrepreneurs feel inspired and engaged in the global education community to help solve pressing issues and embrace new technology. Resources Mentioned: AIFS Abroad | aifsabroad.com, 2016 Global Internship Conference Debate in Boston Connect with Emily: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Support Via Voices by subscribing on YouTube: youtube.com/@viatrm Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/via-voices Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3R0BcoxUC6Xzr1SW7CCT2t

6. 

   10 Jul 2025

   From Culture Shock to College Leadership: University of Tulsa’s Vivian Wang Makes it Personal

   Many international education professionals find their career inspiration from personal experiences either studying abroad or being an international student at a US university. For Vivian Wang, Vice Provost for Global Engagement at University of Tulsa, her experience studying in Oklahoma after growing up in Shanghai reshaped her opinion of herself as an educator and set her on the path towards leading internationalization strategies, embracing global partnerships, and advocating for more supportive study abroad programs for students in the US. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:25] Culture Shock: Shanghai to Oklahoma & Vivian’s experience in international ed [04:45] International from Tulsa: Global education under one centralized office [07:33] Data Storytelling Essentials: Reflecting national trends & Tulsa trends together [10:26] Uncertainties & Lessons Learned: Navigating geopolitical policies & climates [15:56] Rapid Fire Questions: Vivian talks cultural identity, mentorship & motherhood Guest Spotlight Vivian Wang: Vivian Wang is the Vice Provost for Global Engagement at University of Tulsa. She is an experienced international educator with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. She is skilled in international programs, global partnerships and internationalization strategies. Vivian has a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) focused in Higher Education/Higher Education Administration from Oklahoma State University. Key Takeaways: How Does Tulse Define Success? “Our student success is incredibly important in how I define my success in [international education].” As an international student herself, Vivian feels a personal connection to the international goals of University of Tulsa, especially in regard to how international students thrive on campus. Beyond percentages and rates, Vivian hopes her role empowers students to seek a global education and connect with the world around them. How Does Vivian Leverage Data? “I think it's so important that we have that information and that data to convey our story and our impact.” University of Tulsa’s stakeholders are incredibly interested in the success of international programming, and Vivian finds herself often reporting data on a quarterly basis to cover everything from student feedback to social media engagement. Data is everything in international ed, and Vivian is excited to see data technology focused on so heavily by companies like Via. How Can International Ed Navigate Uncertainty? “I think we need to truly convey our mission of having that transformational experience for students.” With grants on hold and immigration policies changing, Vivian doesn’t want higher education to lose sight of the value of internationalizing. Students deserve a global education and universities need to stay strong in their beliefs of the impact of international programming. Resources Mentioned: University of Tulsa | utulsa.edu Connect with Vivian: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Support Via Voices by subscribing on YouTube: youtube.com/@viatrm Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/via-voices Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3R0BcoxUC6Xzr1SW7CCT2t

7. 

   19 Jun 2025

   How One Campus Protects Global Opportunities in a Divided Climate

   Kathleen Fairfax, Vice Provost at Colorado State University, discusses how universities navigate political divides to protect global opportunities and ensure accessibility for international students, highlighting the importance of technology and diversity in study abroad programs in this interview.

8. 

   12 Jun 2025

   The Education Tech Gap: Via Brings Innovation to International Education with Dave Saben

   Via CEO Dave Saben discusses how Via International uses technology to improve compliance, communication, and connectivity for universities managing international education programs in this interview.

9. 

   5 Jun 2025

   Top Study Abroad University Talks Tech: How Elon University Achieves 94% Study Abroad with Nick Gozik

   Dean of Global Education Nick Gozik at Elon University discusses the university's global culture and how they achieve high study abroad participation rates, highlighting the importance of data in dispelling myths and driving new initiatives in international education in this interview.

10. 

    22 May 2025

    Future Readiness: Gen Next Education’s Girish Ballolla Brings New Tech to Higher Ed

    International education isn’t just made up of universities and administrators; business partners are an essential component of global outreach and the internationalization process. Gen Next Education is an international education company providing strategic expertise and tactical coordination to hundreds of universities, connecting students in more than 170 countries to learning opportunities abroad. Gen Next Education CEO Girish Ballolla has big ideas for what’s next in the world of higher education, including how AI might be education’s biggest connection opportunity. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:41] Finding a Legacy: 15 years of Gen Next Education opportunities [04:31] Leveraging Tech to Scale: Virtual meetings & AI-powered career counseling [12:46] Professional Development: Balancing fast-moving tech with person-to-person connection [17:45] Rapid Fire Questions: Girish talks global communication & changing education systems Guest Spotlight Girish Ballolla: As the CEO of Gen Next Education, Girish is responsible for envisioning the strategic direction for Gen Next and spends most of his time nurturing relationships across the globe to further Gen Next’s mission of bridging Global Education. Girish was born and raised in Bengaluru where he completed high school before moving to the U.S. in 1992 to pursue a college education. He received a B.S. in Genetics and Cell Biology and a M.S. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Kansas. Prior to founding Gen Next Education, he spent over 13 years in Human Resources, Sales and Marketing, Operations, and Supply Chain Management in a variety of industries in the U.S. ranging from chemicals to home improvement, from educational institutions to non-profits, from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. Key Takeaways: Education Industry Meets AI: “How do you engage with people all around the world at the same time, especially in their native language?” Gen Next Education is embracing technology as much as they possibly can, and Girish says that includes taking full advantage of AI integrations. With chat bots and other algorithmic tools available, Girish hopes to engage students around the world, regardless of his staff’s capacity, in their native language and at their convenience. Balancing Tech & Connectivity: “For practitioners in our industry, I think being at these gatherings to interact with people and spend that time is so meaningful.” Although Gen Next is embracing tech and virtual opportunities wholeheartedly, Girish still advocates for the importance of in-person learning, especially when it comes to professional development. Being able to connect with industry practitioners at events held by AIEA, for example, offers Girish such a transformative opportunity to learn that he wants to share this with others. Dreaming Bigger About Ed: “We’re putting students in an educational system that’s limiting their opportunities while the world is changing rapidly.” Girish sees the future of education beyond the current higher ed system, hoping that universities, professors and private partners grow to understand the diverse needs of ever-evolving global industries. If given the opportunity to make mass change on his own, Girish would focus on creating an accessible education system that expands student opportunities, instead of limiting them to location or practice. Resources Mentioned: Gen Next Education, Inc. | gennexteducation.com, Destiny Benders Podcast | destinybenders.com Connect with Girish: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Connect with Host Brooke Roberts on LinkedIn

11. 

    15 May 2025

    Student Success on a Global Scale: ISU Embraces Culture Beyond the Classroom with Roopa Rawjee

    When navigating the world of international education, special considerations need to be made, especially by co-curriculars, to create an environment and culture at their universities that inspires internationalization and magnifies student success. Roopa Rawjee, Executive Director, Office of International Engagement at Illinois State University, discusses how her past as an international student has shaped her present as an administrator and how she hopes to impact ISU and other universities to embrace global learning opportunities outside of the classroom in the future. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:06] Experience as an International Student: Falling in love with higher ed [10:51] Defining Success at Illinois State: Opportunities, success, & international opportunities [16:00] Technology & SIO Core Competencies: Partnerships, communications, & logistics [21:02] HERS Network Experience: Immersion learning from women in international ed [24:46] Rapid Fire Questions: Roopa talks investments, access, & advice for SIOs Guest Spotlight Roopa Rawjee: International education administrator with more than two decades of experience with student success strategies, co-curricular education, teaching, immigration advising, comprehensive internationalization, and strategic leadership grounded in the values of diversity, inclusion, and belonging. AIEA Presidential Fellow 2023-24. Inaugural Mentor: NAFSA RISE Fellows. Key Takeaways: Student Affairs & International Ed: “Our job as co-curricular educators is to create that safe and welcoming space outside the classroom.” As a non-traditional college student, Roopa attended university in California as a woman from India, older and more experienced than many of her classmates. While working with student affairs programming on campus, Roopa fell in love with higher ed and felt motivated to create a space for other international students to fall in love with learning, too. Bringing the World to Illinois: “I want to take us from opportunistic to strategic. Success for us is going to be comprehensive internationalization.” When measuring success at her current institution, Roopa is mindful of financial and logistical challenges of study abroad. When seeking to internationalize Illinois State, her office seeks opportunities to not only have students explore the world, but to bring the world, through faculty and fellow students, to Illinois. Leveraging Existing Tech: “I think the solutions can be really simple, looking at what’s already available on campus. We want progress, not perfection.” Higher education has experienced its fair share of tech hangups, and Roopa’s team at ISU have gone through mountains of paperwork and a myriad of emails trying to solve them. When it comes to optimizing technology at universities as large as ISU, Roopa believes in auditing and leveraging what already exists, versus jumping at the first chance for another new software. Resources Mentioned: Illinois State University | illinoisstate.edu Connect with Roopa: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Connect with Host Brooke Roberts on LinkedIn

12. 

    8 May 2025

    94% Retention Rate: How NYU Engages a Global Student Body to Succeed with Sherif Barsoum

    NYU boasts one of the highest student retention rates in the country at approximately 94%, but their international student population is even more loyal. Sherif Barsoum, Senior Associate Vice President for Global Services at NYU, believes in student-focused programming that prioritizes connecting international students to each other, their advisors, and their broader community. Can other universities adopt NYU’s inspirational international education models? Sherif helps the global education community with advice that puts students first. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:00] Why Higher Ed? Sherif’s inspiration behind his 30-year international education career [03:10] NYU & International Students: Optimizing programming for increased student success [07:32] Uncertain Times: How NYU prioritizes international students through policy changes [09:46] Tech Innovations for Student Needs: AI chatbots revolutionize communications [13:31] Rapid Fire Questions: Sherif talks advisor-student ratios, data, & student ROIs Guest Spotlight Sherif Barsoum: Sherif Barsoum has been in the field of international education for more than 29 years. He is currently the Senior Associate Vice President for Global Services at NYU. Prior to NYU, Barsoum held positions at Ohio State University and Vanderbilt University. Originally from Cairo, Egypt, Barsoum received his BA in political science and master’s degree in higher education administration from the Ohio State University and finished doctoral coursework at the University of Alabama. Barsoum regularly conducts training in intercultural programming and has served as chair of NAFSA’s Knowledge Community for International Student and Scholar Services as well as chair of NAFSA’s Region VI. He served on boards of NAFSA, CEA and AIEA. Key Takeaways: NYU’s International Student Hub: “Our retention rate at NYU right now is around 94%, but it’s even higher for our international students.” In his work at NYU, Sherif is focused on including international students in programming that appeals to and focuses on them. For their International Hub (or I-Hub), NYU provided more than 400 programs to international students including career training, networking events, and specific skill workshops. Navigating Uncertain Times: “The students are looking to you for guidance, and you’re there to advise them, but also you’re there to show them support.” With immigration policies changing across the US, Sherif believes advisors in international education need to step up to continue to educate, guide and support students in every way they can. Times may be uncertain for some, but students need to feel certain that educators and advisors have their best interests at heart. New Tech, More Answers: “With the chatbot, we might get 3,000 or 4,000 emails answered and questions answered for students.” Technology advancements for the Global Services office at NYU are focused on capacity. With a student body of thousands, Sherif explains that even the addition of an AI chatbot has made a profound communication impact. Resources Mentioned: NYU | nyu.edu Connect with Sherif Barsoum: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Connect with Host Brooke Roberts on LinkedIn

13. 

    1 May 2025

    Beyond Borders, International Education Seeks a Human Connection with Babson’s Amir Reza

    Babson College has been ranked the number one school in entrepreneurship for 31 consecutive years. Amir Reza, Dean of Babson Academy, believes an international education approach to this learning can take Babson, and others focused on entrepreneurship, to new heights. Beyond borders, international education offers a humanizing perspective and a well-rounded learning process that shows future entrepreneurs how to create thriving businesses that change the world. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:58] From Childhood Experiences to Ed Career: Finding humanity & learning around the world [05:22] Entrepreneurship Meets International: Babson’s entrepreneurship programs go global [09:07] Tech at Babson: Bringing gamification learning to entrepreneurial learning [12:32] Is Higher Ed Being Undermined? Government policies challenge global education [22:18] Rapid Fire Questions: Amir talks humanity, opportunity, & career connections Guest Spotlight Amir Reza: Amir Reza is the dean of the Babson Academy for the Advancement of Global Entrepreneurial Learning (Babson Academy), a dedicated unit within Babson College that inspires change in the way universities teach and learn entrepreneurship. He is also dean of Global Education, responsible for advancing overall internationalization efforts for Babson College through curricular and cocurricular programs. Reza formerly was vice provost for International & Multicultural Education at Babson College. He has served on regional leadership boards for NAFSA: Association of International Educators, and has presented at national and international conferences on international education. He chaired the Editorial Committee of the Association of International Education Administrators. Key Takeaways: Internationalization Meets Entrepreneurship: “How can I convince stakeholders that, without internationalization, perhaps we can’t be the best entrepreneurship school?” With Babson College being a top school in entrepreneurship, Amir approaches his work in international education with a focus on future founders and business owners. Being able to provide global learning opportunities to entrepreneurship students elevates the internationalization of Babson and encourages success from international students and those studying abroad. Gaming Enhances Education: “Gamification, especially for Gen Z, is critical if we're going to be relevant as educators.” To appeal to younger generations of aspiring entrepreneurs, Amir has been involved in developing the Babson Mindset Game, a new educational approach that gamifies entrepreneurial learning. Beyond lectures and case studies, today’s students respond well to challenging puzzles and innovative virtual learning tools, especially when understanding complex global business ideas. Policies Create Challenges: “Higher education and, as an extension, international higher education is under attack in many ways, and we are being undermined in terms of resources.” In a divided world facing challenges with climate change, resources, and international conflict, Amir believes that international education and higher education are vital. However, recent policies regarding immigration and educational funding create existential threats to higher education that Amir believes will stunt the solutions being created around the world’s most pressing issues. Resources Mentioned: Babson College | babson.edu Connect with Amir Reza: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Connect with Host Brooke Roberts on LinkedIn

Who has been a guest on Via Voices

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Kathleen Fairfax
• Dave Saben
• Nick Gozik

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

1,334

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 42 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

45

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

32