Center for International Studies
Mike Laffey, Director
Anna Nieves, International Student Advisor
Gisselle Arce, Study Abroad Advisor
Jessica Goldsmith Barzilay, Assistant Vice President Global Initiatives
Location: CAS-201
908-737-0350
website: https://www.kean.edu/offices/international-education
The Center for International Studies (CIS) coordinates the activities of Kean University faculty, staff, and students that integrate international education into the University. CIS coordinates Kean USA - Wenzhou-Kean University exchange program, supports study abroad, organizes Travelearn opportunities, administers agreements for academic partnerships with foreign universities, and supports international students, scholars, and exchange visitors at Kean.
Eligible matriculated students are encouraged to study abroad at our satellite campus at Wenzhou, China or through our study abroad program to over one hundred top universities in over 50 countries, allowing them to grow intellectually, develop intercultural communication skills, and improve foreign language skills. Students enroll in a full course of study and are eligible to apply these credits to meet Kean University degree requirements. Participants are also eligible to apply for financial assistance toward program costs. Application deadlines for spring semester study abroad are typically in mid-October of the preceding fall semester; application deadlines for summer and fall semester study abroad are typically in mid-March of the preceding spring semester.
Travelearn programs offer participants the opportunity to combine academic study with short-term travel to sites and facilities overseas. The experience is enriched by lectures, readings, and other activities designed to provide student and non-student participants a broader and deeper appreciation of travel. Faculty coordinators are specialists in the fields of study related to each program and are acquainted with the cultural opportunities presented by the countries.
CIS also provides international students with a wide range of programs and opportunities at Kean. International students are warmly welcomed at Kean and are integrated into the Kean Community during their stay in the United States. CIS assists foreign students in making successful transitions to Kean and life in the United States. CIS helps guide and advise international students through the proper procedures required to remain in good standing with immigration and to maintain their status in the US. Additionally, CIS conducts orientations, helps with registration, practical training, reinstatement procedures, and academic issues while on campus.
By coordinating our exchange program, study abroad, Travelearn, academic partnerships and activities of foreign students and scholars, the Center for International Studies seeks to synchronize the academic and extracurricular international activities that enable Kean faculty, staff, and students to gain global and cross-cultural understanding. Ultimately, it is hoped that our efforts will generate a diverse group of alumni and others who will have a significant international experience and become better citizens, diplomats, ambassadors, policy makers, area specialists, and activists promoting a better world.