Abdeali Saherwala | Staff Writer
Featured image: Despite this transfer of authority, York International hopes to remain steadfast in their primary goal. | Courtesy of Vice-President Academic and Provost
Effective January 1, all responsibilities related to student services and support for international students and domestic students participating in international activities transitioned from the Office of Associate Vice-President (AVP), International, to the Vice-Provost Students, with the intention of providing a higher quality of care.
Jurisdiction of all domestic students participating in any international activities or programs were transferred as well.
This transfer was conducted in order to create a more student-focused approach in executing these services, while strengthening communication and coordination amongst different sectors of international student services.
“This change to the administrative structure of student services was planned in consultation with both the Office of AVP, International and Vice-Provost Students. It is part of an ongoing effort by the University to advance a seamless, student-centered approach.
“Aligning services for international students with the Office of the Vice-Provost Students, which is responsible for collaborative student-facing functions university-wide, and will strengthen communication and coordination among different branches of student services,” says Barbara Joy, of York’s media relations.
This transfer was conducted in order to increase joint planning for different initiatives, which will improve the recruitment and orientation process, as well as services for international students.
“We believe this will have benefits for the joint planning of new initiatives in the areas of recruitment, orientation, and student success, to help ensure we address the full diversity of student needs and interests in designing and rolling out our advising and support programs,” says Joy.
Despite this transfer of authority, York International (YI) hopes to remain steadfast in their primary goal.
This past year, York welcomed more than 6,000 international students from over 178 countries around the globe. To accommodate these students, YI provides several services to potential and current international students.
“YI’s primary focus remains the same: to support and transition international students before and during their time at York University, and to support eligible domestic students interested in taking part in international exchange opportunities with one of more than 200 international university partners.
“The YI team is proud to provide a wide range of supports and services, which will remain unchanged, including: preparation for coming to Canada, dedicated YI orientation sessions, help to access immigration services and supports, accessing financial services and supports, help to access health services, and directly connecting students to mental health and counselling services,” adds Joy.
The AVP, Dr. Marilyn Lambert-Drache, will continue to work in her original position, reporting to the Provost and Vice-President Academic.
She will also “work collaboratively with that Office, as well as the Office of Vice-President Research and Innovation, on the development of an institutional Global Engagement Strategy, including international partnerships, student exchanges, summer institutes, faculty exchanges, and international travel.”
Services or programs pertaining to international students and international activities for eligible domestic students will continue regardless of this change, as it is intended to be more administrative in nature, and should not affect frontline services, adds Joy.
