Q&A

Could you tell us about your work at the UofM?

 I started my work as a tenure track professor in the Fogelman College of Business & Economics in 1999. In 2011 I was appointed as the director of MBA programs. In 2020 I was appointed as the vice provost of International Affairs. In this role I am responsible for building the University of Memphis brand abroad, recruit quality students and am responsible for the life cycle of the students and their success.

What are some of the reasons for the increase in international student enrollment since 2020?

 The key reasons for the exponential growth of our international student enrollment are: strategic vision, hard work and local knowledge. In 2020 when we started this journey the University administration had a strategic vision to grow the international enrollment for a variety of reasons. They were willing to support this initiative and were a great source of encouragement. A number of people and units across the University worked hard, changed the way things were done and bought into this vision for this initiative to be successful. Some departments were more entrepreneurial and willing to take the risk of being the first ones to have a large international student population. It was also important to bring in people with in-depth local knowledge of the countries we were going to recruit students from.

Why is it important for the UofM to increase international student enrollment?

 As a Carnegie R1 institution it is important for the University of Memphis to access and bring in the best students irrespective of their country of origin. Our University’s vision is to be a university with a national reputation. This is best built by tapping into global talent pool. This increases the diversity of our student population and exposes all our students to multiple cultures and viewpoints which is critical to prepare them for success after their graduation. 

 What three tips would you give international students at the UofM?

 I would advise our international students to focus on the following: broaden your horizons, work hard and focus on personal growth. You have travelled many miles to gain knowledge at the University of Memphis. You had many options, and we are glad that you decided to make Memphis your home. In order to maximally benefit from this experience, it is important that you come with an open mind and are willing to explore different cultures and viewpoints. Make sure that you work hard and do well academically because that is what you are here for. Also, invest in learning outside the classroom and grow as an individual since it is critical for your success after graduation.

What ways can the UofM community support the work you do?

 The UofM community already provides a great deal of help and support. Without this we could not have grown our international student population so rapidly. I would request everyone at UofM to ensure that they have an open mind when dealing with international students. The student may be coming from a very different culture and hence it is important sometimes for us to be patient and take the time to learn about their perspective.

 What do you love most about your job?  

 Interacting with students from different cultures. It is also very gratifying to be a conduit providing access to education for students from many different countries. By providing access we not only are changing the future prospect for a student but are helping change the trajectory of growth for the family and community that the student belongs to.

What book are you reading right now?

 I am currently re-reading “Thinking, Fast and Slow” in honor of Daniel Kahneman.

 What is your favorite food or cuisine?

 I am vegetarian and enjoy most cuisines which have spicy vegetarian options.

 What is next on your to do list?

 In the last four years I have not had time to invest in personal growth as much as I wanted to. I also plan on expanding my horizons by traveling.