NSU Director Celebrates a Decade of International Student Support

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  Media and Entertainment on Tue, Mar 24th, 2026 by KTAL Shreveport
      Locales: UNITED STATES, RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Fort Lauderdale-Davie, Florida - March 25, 2026 - Valentina Reyes, Director of International Student Services at Nova Southeastern University (NSU), is being lauded for her decade-long commitment to fostering a thriving international student community. What began as a focused effort to address logistical challenges has evolved into a holistic approach encompassing cultural integration, academic support, and proactive advocacy for students hailing from over 100 countries.

NSU's dedication to global diversity has seen a consistent increase in international enrollment over the past ten years, and much of this success is attributed to Reyes' leadership. Her team doesn't merely process international students; they actively cultivate an environment where these students can flourish both personally and academically. "The initial years were largely about streamlining visa processes and ensuring compliance," Reyes explains. "But we quickly realized that these students needed more than just administrative support. They needed a true sense of belonging, a network of peers, and resources specifically tailored to their unique challenges."

The challenges Reyes highlights are multifaceted. Beyond the obvious hurdles of language acquisition and navigating a new educational system, international students often grapple with cultural shock, homesickness, financial anxieties, and the complexities of maintaining connections with family back home. Reyes' team addresses these concerns through a comprehensive suite of services. Pre-arrival webinars provide crucial information about life in South Florida, including practical details like housing, transportation, and healthcare. Rigorous orientation programs focus not only on academic expectations but also on cultural adaptation and building intercultural communication skills.

However, Reyes' approach extends far beyond the logistical. Recognizing the importance of mental wellbeing, her team partnered with NSU's counseling services to offer specialized support groups specifically for international students - spaces where they can openly discuss their experiences, share coping mechanisms, and build a strong support network. Furthermore, the International Student Services office has initiated a "Global Buddy" program, pairing incoming international students with domestic students to facilitate cross-cultural exchange and offer guidance during the transition period.

"We've seen a significant decrease in reported feelings of isolation among our international students since implementing the Global Buddy program," Reyes notes. "It's a simple idea, but it has a profound impact. It provides a bridge between cultures and helps students feel immediately connected to the NSU community."

The commitment to community building is also reflected in the vibrant calendar of cultural events organized by Reyes' team. From annual international festivals showcasing music, dance, and cuisine from around the world, to smaller, more intimate gatherings focused on specific cultural traditions, these events provide opportunities for both international and domestic students to learn from one another and celebrate diversity. NSU now boasts several student-led international cultural organizations, which receive funding and mentorship from the International Student Services office.

Looking ahead, Reyes envisions expanding NSU's international student support to include more robust career services tailored to the specific needs of global graduates. "Many international students face unique challenges when entering the U.S. job market, including visa restrictions and cultural differences in workplace expectations," she explains. "We want to equip them with the skills and resources they need to successfully launch their careers and contribute to the U.S. economy."

The success of NSU's international student initiatives has not gone unnoticed. The university recently received the "Simon Award for Internationalization," a prestigious national recognition awarded to institutions demonstrating a sustained commitment to global education. Reyes herself has been invited to speak at several international education conferences, sharing her expertise and advocating for best practices in international student support. While acknowledging the accolades, Reyes remains focused on the students. "For me, the greatest reward is seeing our international students thrive - graduating with honors, pursuing their dreams, and becoming global citizens who are making a positive impact on the world."