NAFSA: Day 3

And yet another incredible day of learning, networking, smiling, laughing, and being inspired by the GlobaLinks staff, the Kingston University international department, and all the other interesting educators I came in contact with throughout the day.

I had so many people who recognized me from the luncheon yesterday compliment me on my speech, wish me luck in my future and in the field, and mention potential opportunities. All of the GlobaLinks staff, and Kingston staff for that matter, helped me network, told various companies that I was looking for jobs or internships, and put in a good word for me. I even stopped and had a chat with the CEO of STA, who I sat next to at the luncheon, who said if I ever needed a good deal on a flight, I could simply contact him and he would get me set right up. Pretty nifty to have the contact information of a travel agency's CEO, then, eh?

This evening, after all the meetings and official stuff, I went to receptions with Zac and the crew, where I met more fascinating people, including a guy named Scott who works for CIS out of Jacksonville and went to JU! Small world. After the parties, I went back to the suite to say goodbye to everyone before they started their debriefing meeting...but then Cynthia (the CEO of GlobaLinks) invited me to stay! This was obviously a huge honor, and one that I felt unworthy of, but I jumped right in, listened, learned even more, and thanked all of them for the invaluable opportunity they had provided me with by allowing me to not only attend NAFSA on their dime, but also to be a part of their team. Literally, this is the most welcoming group of professionals I have ever met, and it was a massive privilege to be a part of the family this week.

I have so much more to tell you. But let me just say...this is only the beginning. Carrie said I should make it my goal to be at the 2016 NAFSA in Colorado, and that is exactly what I am going to do. So this is not the last you will see of me, my IE friends. I look forward to seeing you all in the very near future.

Thank you GlobaLinks, Kingston Uni, NAFSA, and everyone else who make this an unforgettable week and and an incredible jumpstart to my post-graduate life. I am truly humbled, amazed, and grateful.

Love,
lvp