The ISS department was formed this year. Photo courtesy of Hamilton College.
Dr. Omobonike Odegbami started her role this year as the Director of International Student Services (ISS), a new position and department established to better support international students at the College. International students were formerly governed by Dean Harrison in Multicultural Affairs.
The ISS department currently lends assistance with international travel forms, visas, Social Security, OPT work visas and more. Other resources listed on the website have been limited to those available to all students, such as the Writing Center, the OCC, the QSR and the Counseling Center.
ISS also offers the International Friendship Program (IFP), which connects incoming students with staff or Clinton community members. IFP families will generally host students for meals, take trips to local attractions, and offer assistance in acclimating.
We interviewed Dr. Odegbami below:
What brought you to Hamilton?
I wanted to expand on my higher education experience since, for the past 20 years, I have been in the community college setting. I sought out 4-year institutions to get a broader view of the field of international education.
Could you tell me a bit about yourself and your background/experience?
I was born in Chicago, raised in Nigeria (hold dual citizenship), and I’m a married mother of two adult children (ages 27 and 22). I have a degree in Psychology from Bowie State University, an MBA from Northwood University and a doctorate (Ed.D) from Kansas State University. I have been a higher education administrator for 20 years with the last 12 years focusing on international education at the community college level.
As an international student yourself, what do you think is the most important way international students should be supported?
Hamilton college has taken the first step, which is to invest in resources such as a dedicated international student staff member. It is important to be intentional about programs that (1) support international student success; (2) promote international understanding on campus; and (3) to understand government regulations. Beyond on-campus resources, it is important to also build programs to connect with the local community — all of which are part of my goals.
What does the new ISS office do?
My role was created to provide specialized support to international students and give them a sense of belonging. My main goal is to broaden campus integration and engagement opportunities. You can expect to see collaboration between various stakeholders on campus and in the local community to ensure the effective delivery of programs and services.
What changes do you plan to make?
Considering there has never been a true International Student Services department here at Hamilton, I serve as an inaugural Director and I plan to implement programs that give international students a sense of belonging.
There have always been services for international students at Hamilton College, but there has never been a dedicated service or department. My plan is to enhance the services to students by listening to what they want, along with best practices in the field of international education. The support you listed are already here at Hamilton, and I see my role as giving those more visibility through departmental programming. There are plans to expand the departmental staffing.