Minot State University
08/29/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/29/2024 16:00
Page TitleOnward: An interview with Erin Anderson
By Michael Linnell
University Communications Director
MINOT, N.D. - There aren't many offices on campus that require maximum attention to detail as part of their daily routines as the Minot State Office of International Programs.
Working with the federal government to provide support for MSU's international students is demanding.
Erin Anderson, MSU's international student/SEVIS coordinator, uses her background in business administration to be up to the task.
Don't just take our word for it; the international students often comment on the work Anderson and the rest of the Office of International Programs does.
University Communications decided to check out what all the buzz is about and visited with Anderson to get a better understanding of what she does for the University and our international students.
You are a part of Minot State's very successful international programs department; tell us a little about what you do as an international/SEVIS coordinator.
EA: As an international student/SEVIS coordinator, I assist international F-1 students from the time they are admitted through the end of their time at MSU and into authorized employment after school.
Our first steps are working with them to have their correct documents for arrival to the U.S. and providing the information they will need to get started at MSU as an international student. We strive to support them upon their arrival in many ways, and we stress the importance of knowing the F-1 regulations they need to follow while they are here. Throughout their time at MSU, we provide F-1 regulation guidance but also try to provide an environment of support where they can stop in our office for any reason and feel welcome. After graduation, we assist them if they wish to pursue OPT, which is a year of authorized employment they can apply for through the U.S. Government.
There is a team of three in the international department; give us an idea of what it is like in the department, and do you have a favorite moment or two that you can share?
EA: I think our department has a wonderful, positive vibe. The three of us, along with our student worker, share a common focus on providing a great experience to our international students. It is so enjoyable to work with our team because we keep it upbeat and student-focused, and our personalities work very well together. We view our office as a happy place to be. We often have students who stop by just to say hello or hang out for a while. A recent office addition of Maleeha's (international programs director Maleeha Latif) dog, Mango, has also been fun for the students and staff. We have had some nice compliments from the students lately regarding our office and especially regarding the fun events that Aracelli (Araceli Erickson, international activity coordinator) has planned for them. Hearing that positive feedback are some of my favorite moments.
What are some of the reasons you wanted to work in the international programs department?
EA: Before working at MSU, I had been staying home with my children for quite some time. I knew as they were getting older that I was ready to go back to work and was keeping my eye out for the right fit. When I saw the job for International SEVIS Coordinator posted, I knew right away that I wanted to apply for it. I just knew it would be so fun and interesting to work with students from around the world and that the University would provide a great work environment. I didn't have previous experience with SEVIS but knew that I could work hard to learn everything I needed to know to do the job well.
The office team is relatively new, and you are all from areas outside of Northwest North Dakota; tell us how you all came together as a team.
EA: I'm from St. Michael, Minnesota but have lived in Minot for 16 years because this is where my husband is from. Our other team members have come from much farther away but came to Minot as students and have stayed. I think our variety of cultures and backgrounds helps us to relate to students and to form good practices for making them feel welcomed and supported. Our team has great dynamics, and it makes what we do that much more enjoyable.
Speaking of not being from the Minot area, where are you from originally and what were some of the factors moving to the Magic City?
EA: We moved to Minot during the oil boom because the job opportunities were so much better at the time, but also because of the pace of life it had to offer. Minot has great opportunities without being overcrowded and full of traffic. We love the community and love raising our family here.
What is your academic background? How has your academic background helped you in your current role?
EA: I did not go to school to work with international students. At one time, my major was international business, but I ended up changing it to business administration. I've always enjoyed learning about other cultures, and I participated in two study abroad programs when I was in college. I think having an open mind and an appreciation for other cultures benefits my life and those around me.
What do you like to do outside of the University: family, hobbies, or other areas of interest?
EA: Outside of the University, I enjoy spending time with my family. My husband, Clay, and I have five kids: Milo (16), Nora (15), Vivy (11), Hope (9), and Lani (7), and that alone keeps us busy. We like watching the kids in their various activities, spending time at home together playing games or watching a movie, or being out in our yard any time of the year. In the summer, we get to the lake any chance we get. I also like to garden, read, and enjoy a cup of coffee, catching up with friends.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 08/29/24