The International Student Centre (ISC) is your home away from home, providing the support and resources you need to thrive in Canada. From immigration guidance and cultural programming to academic support and community connections, we’re here to help you navigate your journey and make the most of your university experience.
From: Dominican Republic
Pronouns: He/him/his
How do you identify? A friend.
Job title: Manager of International Student Services
Role details: Overseeing the International Student Service Centre
Favourite thing about working at SMU: Helping international students
Contact info: ysaac.rodriguez@smu.ca
Fun Fact: I enjoy yoga, meditation, working out, and baseball. I am from a Caribbean island that shares two different countries - Dominican Republic and Haiti.
From: China and Canada
Pronouns: She/her/hers
How do you identify? A friend and a parent.
Job title: International Student Advisor
Role details: As an Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), I provide immigration advising for students who are studying at SMU.
Favourite thing about working at SMU: Working with students.
Contact info: shan.luo@smu.ca
Fun Fact: I love to play video games!
From: Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Job title: International Student Experience and Engagement Advisor
Role details: As the International Student Experience and Engagement Advisor, I’m here to assist and support International Students as they navigate their new environment and adjust to their exciting new journey. The International Student Centre offers a range of resources, activities/events, and programs to enhance the student experience- connecting students with other students, campus and community. I’m here to help, if students have any questions about campus life, supports and resources, living in Nova Scotia and cultural adjustments.
Favourite thing about working at SMU: That's easy! Connecting with students and doing what I can to best support them!
Contact info: karen.luther@smu.ca
Fun Fact: I'm a huge animal lover, hiking along the ocean brings me joy and a proud Mom of my three adult children. My favorite two quotes "The beauty of the world lies in the diversity of its people." — Unknown. This quote reflects the essence of international engagement, celebrating cultural diversity and the meaningful connections that can be fostered through shared experiences. Second favorite quote " Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn." — Benjamin Franklin. Highlights the power of active engagement and experiences.
From: Columbian-Canadian
Job title: Office Administrator
Role details: Administrative duties, first point of contact for students.
Favourite thing about working at SMU: Helping international students to adjust to their new life in Canada.
Contact info: international.centre@smu.ca
Fun Fact: I love travelling, nature walks, reading, writing and watching movies.
Students Acting for Global Awareness (SAGA) is a student-led volunteer group that celebrates cultural diversity and fosters cross-cultural connections at Saint Mary’s University. Open to both international and Canadian students, SAGA organizes a variety of events and initiatives, including multicultural celebrations, social gatherings, and experiences unique to Nova Scotia and Canada. By bringing people together through shared experiences, SAGA helps create a welcoming and inclusive campus community.
Volunteering with Students Acting for Global Awareness (SAGA) is a great way to foster cross-cultural connections, create inclusive social events, and help Canadian and international students engage with one another. As a volunteer, you’ll gain valuable skills while making a positive impact on campus.
Who Can Volunteer?
How to Apply
The ISC will send an email to all international students in early summer with an application link to join SAGA for the upcoming academic year. Volunteers are strongly encouraged to attend Pack Leader training held by the Student Success Centre each year towards the end of summer.