Seen here with Delta State’s internationally famous Fighting Okra are EducationUSA advisers (L to R) Elisa Machado, Sandro Molina and Mabel Martinez.CLEVELAND, Miss. — Delta State University welcomed three distinguished EducationUSA advisers from across the globe recently. The purpose of their visit was to delve into the vibrant academic environment, student life, and international outreach efforts of Delta State.
EducationUSA is a U.S. Department of State network comprising over 430 international student advising centers across more than 175 countries and territories. Dedicated to promoting U.S. higher education worldwide, EducationUSA offers accurate and comprehensive information to prospective students while assisting U.S. institutions in achieving their recruitment and internationalization goals.
The advisers were Mabel Martinez, EducationUSA Adviser in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Elisa Machado, EducationUSA / CCBEU Adviser in Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil; and Sandro Molina, EducationUSA Adviser in Arequipa, Peru.
Hosted by DSU’s International Student Services Office, a division of the Student Success Center, the visit was planned to provide a comprehensive overview of the university’s academic offerings, application procedures, student support services, and the rich cultural tapestry of both campus and community life.
The itinerary included a detailed campus tour, culminating in lunch at the Young-Mauldin Dining Hall, where the advisers had the opportunity to interact with students representing diverse nationalities including Mexico, Peru, Brazil, South Africa, and Italy. Additionally, meetings were held with key university officials including Dr. Leslie Griffin, Interim Provost and Vice-President for Academic Affairs, and other faculty members from various departments such as business, nursing, biology, mathematics, and physical education.
Venturing beyond the campus confines, the advisers explored the local attractions of Cleveland, including a visit to the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, and savored the culinary delights at renowned establishments such as Leña and Zoe Coffee.
Reflecting on the significance of EducationUSA’s visit, Kristen Land, Interim Director of the Student Success Center, said, “Delta State’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community is epitomized by our efforts to engage with international students. The presence of EducationUSA advisers provides a platform to showcase DSU’s academic excellence and warm hospitality to prospective students worldwide.”
Missey Hudson, Coordinator of International Student Services, reiterated the importance of such engagements, saying, “Hosting EducationUSA advisers enables us to forge stronger connections with international partners and gain valuable insights into global higher education trends. These interactions empower us to better tailor our outreach efforts and academic programs to meet the evolving needs of prospective DSU students.”
Martinez expressed her gratitude for the enriching experience at DSU, affirming her commitment to disseminate information about the university’s offerings to aspiring Mexican students. Molina lauded DSU for its exceptional hospitality and academic excellence, pledging to share his positive experiences with his network in the Andean region.
For more information about Delta State University and its international initiatives, please visit https://www.deltastate.edu/student-success-center/international-student-services/.
