View the full event seminar programme for ICEF Miami 2023, where we welcome guest speakers and panellists discussing and debating the latest trends in international education. The seminars will take place on December 11th between 13:30 and 19:00.
13:30 - 14:25 | The ICEF Agent Voice: Insights into current recruitment trends
🎤 Speaker
Ian Cann, VP Americas, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
ICEF Agent Voice is an annual survey of ICEF-screened agents from over 100 countries. It is unique in its frequency, reach, and level of detail – comparing perspectives of agents around the world and gaining fresh insights into how they are adapting and responding to global issues and challenges. This includes a year-on-year comparison of the attractiveness of international study destinations as perceived by agents recruiting for a wide range of international study programmes. Additional aspects covered include:
- Where ICEF agents plan to send students in 2024 and beyond
- How institutions can effectively provide support and work closely with their agents this year
- What agents see as the most effective marketing strategies
- Visa approval rates
The survey findings will help educators to build their reputation and relationships with agents and will also assist them in developing strategies to market themselves and their destinations more effectively.
New for Miami 2023: we will also look at trends in the average number of students sent by agents from key markets over recent years.
Ian Cann, VP Americas, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
ICEF Agent Voice is an annual survey of ICEF-screened agents from over 100 countries. It is unique in its frequency, reach, and level of detail – comparing perspectives of agents around the world and gaining fresh insights into how they are adapting and responding to global issues and challenges. This includes a year-on-year comparison of the attractiveness of international study destinations as perceived by agents recruiting for a wide range of international study programmes. Additional aspects covered include:
- Where ICEF agents plan to send students in 2024 and beyond
- How institutions can effectively provide support and work closely with their agents this year
- What agents see as the most effective marketing strategies
- Visa approval rates
The survey findings will help educators to build their reputation and relationships with agents and will also assist them in developing strategies to market themselves and their destinations more effectively.
New for Miami 2023: we will also look at trends in the average number of students sent by agents from key markets over recent years.
14:30 - 14:55 | How to build effective relationships in 25 minutes • Providers
🎤 Speaker
Brittany Goodman, Director, USA, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
This session will provide educators with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of their participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF Miami in particular.
The session will cover the following topics:
- How to maximise your time during the event
- Post-event follow-up and agent contracts
- How to maximise your working relationship with providers
Brittany Goodman, Director, USA, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
This session will provide educators with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of their participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF Miami in particular.
The session will cover the following topics:
- How to maximise your time during the event
- Post-event follow-up and agent contracts
- How to maximise your working relationship with providers
15:00 - 15:25 | The future of student mobility: Where will students come from next?
🎤 Speaker
Ian Cann, VP Americas, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
In this session we will talk about how to identify, select, and prioritize new markets, as well as dive deeper into some of the most promising recruitment markets for US inbound recruitment in 2024 and beyond.
Ian Cann, VP Americas, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
In this session we will talk about how to identify, select, and prioritize new markets, as well as dive deeper into some of the most promising recruitment markets for US inbound recruitment in 2024 and beyond.
15:30 - 16:25 | Best practices for partnerships with Arab Gulf scholarship providers
Moderator
Martijn van de Veen, Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF GmbH
🎤 Panellists
Sarah Crowther, President, Collective Study
Samrat Ray Chaudhuri, Assistant Vice President for International Enrollment Management, Webster University - USA
Sebastian Courage, Director International Business Development, St. George's University, School of Medicine
📝 Description
Each year, scholarship providers, whether governments, ministries, foundations, institutions or private companies, provide funding for hundreds of thousands of students. Scholarships exist for all areas of education: pathway/vocational programmes, life-long learning opportunities, internships, professional training programmes, language studies, and of course university programmes. Funding can be partial or in full, often including accommodation, insurance and travel coverage.
For many schools, institutions or other providers of educational and experiential learning programmes, scholarship partnerships represent an important part of their student recruitment strategies.
In this session we will take a closer look at such scholarship partnerships, specifically from the Arab Gulf region, focusing on identifying potential partners, understanding different types of scholarships, and building long-lasting relationships. We will also discuss the roles and responsibilities of scholarship providers, educators and agencies involved.
Martijn van de Veen, Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF GmbH
🎤 Panellists
Sarah Crowther, President, Collective Study
Samrat Ray Chaudhuri, Assistant Vice President for International Enrollment Management, Webster University - USA
Sebastian Courage, Director International Business Development, St. George's University, School of Medicine
📝 Description
Each year, scholarship providers, whether governments, ministries, foundations, institutions or private companies, provide funding for hundreds of thousands of students. Scholarships exist for all areas of education: pathway/vocational programmes, life-long learning opportunities, internships, professional training programmes, language studies, and of course university programmes. Funding can be partial or in full, often including accommodation, insurance and travel coverage.
For many schools, institutions or other providers of educational and experiential learning programmes, scholarship partnerships represent an important part of their student recruitment strategies.
In this session we will take a closer look at such scholarship partnerships, specifically from the Arab Gulf region, focusing on identifying potential partners, understanding different types of scholarships, and building long-lasting relationships. We will also discuss the roles and responsibilities of scholarship providers, educators and agencies involved.
17:00 - 17:25 | Charting the future: Insights into the English language program sector in the U.S.
🎤 Speaker
Cheryl Delk-Le Good, Executive Director, EnglishUSA
📝 Description
The English language program sector in the U.S. has developed an industry-driven dataset to set the stage for a holistic data collection model, enabling the U.S. to benchmark its ELP global market share against key destinations. The insights, complementing the IIE IEP Open Doors and SEVIS by the Numbers reports, will strengthen advocacy efforts to better support the ELP community. The presenter highlights key findings from the report with previously unavailable market statistics and trends, including student breakdowns by age group, recruitment channel, visa type, and course type. She will also show how the data collection going forward aims to increase the visibility of U.S.-based English language programs in targeted markets and highlight the industry's significance in international education.
Cheryl Delk-Le Good, Executive Director, EnglishUSA
📝 Description
The English language program sector in the U.S. has developed an industry-driven dataset to set the stage for a holistic data collection model, enabling the U.S. to benchmark its ELP global market share against key destinations. The insights, complementing the IIE IEP Open Doors and SEVIS by the Numbers reports, will strengthen advocacy efforts to better support the ELP community. The presenter highlights key findings from the report with previously unavailable market statistics and trends, including student breakdowns by age group, recruitment channel, visa type, and course type. She will also show how the data collection going forward aims to increase the visibility of U.S.-based English language programs in targeted markets and highlight the industry's significance in international education.
17:30 - 18:10 | The basics of recruiting international student athletes
🎤 Speakers
Samuel White, Customer Success Lead Manager, NAIA- National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics
Elizabeth Thompson, Associate Director of International Outreach and Strategic Partnerships, NCAA is the National Collegiate Athletic Association
Jennifer Wright, Director of Operations an Certification, AIRC - American International Recruitment Council
📝 Description
This session will provide a basic overview of the process to help international student athletes enroll in institutions in the U.S. and is geared toward both agency and institutional representatives. Tips on how to communicate with students that are preparing for study and the sport experiences will be provided, as well as a basic introduction to the governing bodies involved (NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA) and the pathway for athletes from secondary schools. The session will provide an overview of eligibility processes and discussions around best fit for the academics and athletics combination.
Samuel White, Customer Success Lead Manager, NAIA- National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics
Elizabeth Thompson, Associate Director of International Outreach and Strategic Partnerships, NCAA is the National Collegiate Athletic Association
Jennifer Wright, Director of Operations an Certification, AIRC - American International Recruitment Council
📝 Description
This session will provide a basic overview of the process to help international student athletes enroll in institutions in the U.S. and is geared toward both agency and institutional representatives. Tips on how to communicate with students that are preparing for study and the sport experiences will be provided, as well as a basic introduction to the governing bodies involved (NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA) and the pathway for athletes from secondary schools. The session will provide an overview of eligibility processes and discussions around best fit for the academics and athletics combination.
18:15 - 18:55 | Bridging the skills gap: Preparing international students for their future careers
Moderator
Martijn van de Veen, Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF GmbH
🎤 Panellists
Jesús Rosario, Sr. Partnerships Manager, Coursera
Paul Keller, Interim Director of Graduate Enrollment and International Recruitment, Rochester Institute of Technology
Mick Zais, Advisory Board Member, Veri Once
📝 Description
In a world that is faced with rapidly evolving technologies and innovations, it is crucial for education providers to equip their international students with the skills demanded by their future employers. In this panel we will discuss the so-called ‘skills gap’, with data, statistics and examples, and discuss the various options that exist for education providers and student recruitment professionals, to help their students bridge this skills gap and enhance their employability and career opportunities. Think of micro-credentials, interdisciplinary programs, internships, and experiential learning as tools for students to gain practical experiences that prepare them for the workforce.
Martijn van de Veen, Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF GmbH
🎤 Panellists
Jesús Rosario, Sr. Partnerships Manager, Coursera
Paul Keller, Interim Director of Graduate Enrollment and International Recruitment, Rochester Institute of Technology
Mick Zais, Advisory Board Member, Veri Once
📝 Description
In a world that is faced with rapidly evolving technologies and innovations, it is crucial for education providers to equip their international students with the skills demanded by their future employers. In this panel we will discuss the so-called ‘skills gap’, with data, statistics and examples, and discuss the various options that exist for education providers and student recruitment professionals, to help their students bridge this skills gap and enhance their employability and career opportunities. Think of micro-credentials, interdisciplinary programs, internships, and experiential learning as tools for students to gain practical experiences that prepare them for the workforce.
13:30 - 13:55 | ICEF Agency Status: Build trust, save time & grow your business
🎤 Speaker
Stephanie Zimmermann, Agent Relations Director, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
Find out how ICEF are leading the way in quality assurance for international education agencies with ICEF Agency Status
This session is for agencies and educational institutions wanting to find out more about ICEF’s expanded agency accreditation program: ICEF Agency Status (IAS). It is more important than ever for professional agents to distinguish themselves and demonstrate their standards to educational institutions and students - hear about how IAS benefits the whole sector, as well as the eligibility requirements for agencies such as background and reference checks and their endorsement of the ICEF Code of Conduct. You’ll find out more about how reputable agencies can be instantly verified using a unique badge, ID and QR code based on blockchain technology, and our new global online network of accredited agencies.
A must-attend session for anyone interested in how ICEF are driving professional standards in international student recruitment for improved student outcomes.
Stephanie Zimmermann, Agent Relations Director, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
Find out how ICEF are leading the way in quality assurance for international education agencies with ICEF Agency Status
This session is for agencies and educational institutions wanting to find out more about ICEF’s expanded agency accreditation program: ICEF Agency Status (IAS). It is more important than ever for professional agents to distinguish themselves and demonstrate their standards to educational institutions and students - hear about how IAS benefits the whole sector, as well as the eligibility requirements for agencies such as background and reference checks and their endorsement of the ICEF Code of Conduct. You’ll find out more about how reputable agencies can be instantly verified using a unique badge, ID and QR code based on blockchain technology, and our new global online network of accredited agencies.
A must-attend session for anyone interested in how ICEF are driving professional standards in international student recruitment for improved student outcomes.
14:00 - 14:25 | How agents can work with universities to build student pipelines (case study from Taiwan)
🎤 Speakers
Jia-Yi Cheng-Levine, Dean, International Affairs & Global Engagement, College of the Canyons
Tim Honadel, Director, Office of International Services & Programs, College of the Canyons
📝 Description
For American colleges and universities (HRE’s), agents are excellent resources for expanding the reach of their marketing and student contact efforts. More to the point, these agencies allow HRE’s to build pipelines for students from all over the world to come and study with them, and reach markets the agents might traditionally not have worked with (such as high school students who want to take classes online from their home countries). This session will show attendees how to work with HREs to find new students via pipeline-type partnerships with high schools, starting as early as the 10th grade level, using Taiwan as a case study.
Jia-Yi Cheng-Levine, Dean, International Affairs & Global Engagement, College of the Canyons
Tim Honadel, Director, Office of International Services & Programs, College of the Canyons
📝 Description
For American colleges and universities (HRE’s), agents are excellent resources for expanding the reach of their marketing and student contact efforts. More to the point, these agencies allow HRE’s to build pipelines for students from all over the world to come and study with them, and reach markets the agents might traditionally not have worked with (such as high school students who want to take classes online from their home countries). This session will show attendees how to work with HREs to find new students via pipeline-type partnerships with high schools, starting as early as the 10th grade level, using Taiwan as a case study.
14:30 - 14:55 | How to build effective relationships in 25 minutes • Agencies
🎤 Speaker
Stephanie Zimmermann, Agent Relations Director, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
This session will provide student recruitment agencies with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of their participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF Miami in particular.
The session will cover the following topics:
- How to maximise your time during the event
- Post-event follow-up and agent contracts
- How to maximise your working relationship with providers
Stephanie Zimmermann, Agent Relations Director, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
This session will provide student recruitment agencies with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of their participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF Miami in particular.
The session will cover the following topics:
- How to maximise your time during the event
- Post-event follow-up and agent contracts
- How to maximise your working relationship with providers
15:00 - 15:25 | How much will your students earn after graduating in Canada?
🎤 Speaker
Diego Sanchez, Director, International Affairs, Languages Canada
📝 Description
Do you know what the ROI is when your students choose to study in Canada? In how much time can they recuperate thousands of dollars paid towards international tuition fees?
Formal education in Canadian educational institutions provides newcomers with high-quality occupational skills tailored towards the Canadian labour market and good knowledge of Canadian society and economy.
Research evidence shows that a large part of the earnings advantages associated with Canadian study experience originated from better official language skills. The higher the knowledge of English or French, the more will newcomers earn once entering the Canadian labour market.
Join this session to learn how to better prepare your students for their financial success in Canada! After all, their success is the success of your institution.
Diego Sanchez, Director, International Affairs, Languages Canada
📝 Description
Do you know what the ROI is when your students choose to study in Canada? In how much time can they recuperate thousands of dollars paid towards international tuition fees?
Formal education in Canadian educational institutions provides newcomers with high-quality occupational skills tailored towards the Canadian labour market and good knowledge of Canadian society and economy.
Research evidence shows that a large part of the earnings advantages associated with Canadian study experience originated from better official language skills. The higher the knowledge of English or French, the more will newcomers earn once entering the Canadian labour market.
Join this session to learn how to better prepare your students for their financial success in Canada! After all, their success is the success of your institution.
15:30 - 15:55 | AI co-pilot: Leveraging AI to increase agency and school efficiency in student relationship management
🎤 Speaker
Gregory Sukornyk, Co-founder, Global Study Technology
📝 Description
AI promises to upend current practices used by agencies and schools in recruiting, interacting with and helping students on their international student journey. Up until now, the common practice of managing students along their international journey has been an often messy, confusing and unnecessarily complicated process. AI has come a long way in a short time. Putting an AI co-pilot in the hands of agency counsellors and school recruiting departments can deliver far greater efficiencies and dramatically increase productivity for agencies and schools. It can deliver unmatched visibility and oversight for agency owners and international student department leaders at schools. It can also ease the confusion for students seeking to study abroad.
Gregory Sukornyk, Co-founder, Global Study Technology
📝 Description
AI promises to upend current practices used by agencies and schools in recruiting, interacting with and helping students on their international student journey. Up until now, the common practice of managing students along their international journey has been an often messy, confusing and unnecessarily complicated process. AI has come a long way in a short time. Putting an AI co-pilot in the hands of agency counsellors and school recruiting departments can deliver far greater efficiencies and dramatically increase productivity for agencies and schools. It can deliver unmatched visibility and oversight for agency owners and international student department leaders at schools. It can also ease the confusion for students seeking to study abroad.
16:00 - 16:25 | Adoption and disruption: How University of Niagara Falls is preparing a digitally fluent workforce
🎤 Speakers
Aneta Sobotka, Global Recruitment Director, Global University Systems
Michelle Hicks, Regional Director - LATAM and The Caribbean, GUS Canada Universities
📝 Description
Embark on a journey into the future of work at our seminar, "Adoption and disruption: How University of Niagara Falls is preparing a digitally fluent workforce." In this transformative session, we delve into ground breaking programs shaping the way we study and work, bridging the gap between tradition and the demands of the modern workplace. Uncover strategies to navigate the evolving digital landscape and fostering a culture of adaptability. Through this insightful seminar, participants will gain insights on how to empower their teams and students. Join us at the forefront of innovation as we explore the dynamic intersection of people, technology, and the future workforce against the breathtakingly backdrop of Niagara Falls. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your approach to work and thrive in the ever-changing professional landscape.
Aneta Sobotka, Global Recruitment Director, Global University Systems
Michelle Hicks, Regional Director - LATAM and The Caribbean, GUS Canada Universities
📝 Description
Embark on a journey into the future of work at our seminar, "Adoption and disruption: How University of Niagara Falls is preparing a digitally fluent workforce." In this transformative session, we delve into ground breaking programs shaping the way we study and work, bridging the gap between tradition and the demands of the modern workplace. Uncover strategies to navigate the evolving digital landscape and fostering a culture of adaptability. Through this insightful seminar, participants will gain insights on how to empower their teams and students. Join us at the forefront of innovation as we explore the dynamic intersection of people, technology, and the future workforce against the breathtakingly backdrop of Niagara Falls. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your approach to work and thrive in the ever-changing professional landscape.
17:00 - 17:25 | BMO empowering newcomers: A path to financial literacy, success and career opportunities
🎤 Speaker
Srikanth Sekar, Director Customer Segments, BMO Bank of Montreal
📝 Description
Embark on a transformative exploration of BMO's pioneering initiatives dedicated to fostering the success and growth of newcomers to Canada. Our presentation will highlight three flagship programs—BMO's NewStart®, BMO SmartProgress™, and the revolutionary BMO Newcomer Talent Program. These initiatives will be meticulously unveiled and discussed, providing a roadmap for students to access best-in-class and personalized banking products.
At the heart of our presentation is a focus on empowering students with financial education well before they set foot in Canada. We aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills essential for financial success in their new environment.
Join us as we guide agencies, institutional partners and prospective students through a comprehensive understanding of these programs, demonstrating how BMO is not merely a financial institution but a dedicated partner in the newcomers' journey.
Srikanth Sekar, Director Customer Segments, BMO Bank of Montreal
📝 Description
Embark on a transformative exploration of BMO's pioneering initiatives dedicated to fostering the success and growth of newcomers to Canada. Our presentation will highlight three flagship programs—BMO's NewStart®, BMO SmartProgress™, and the revolutionary BMO Newcomer Talent Program. These initiatives will be meticulously unveiled and discussed, providing a roadmap for students to access best-in-class and personalized banking products.
At the heart of our presentation is a focus on empowering students with financial education well before they set foot in Canada. We aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills essential for financial success in their new environment.
Join us as we guide agencies, institutional partners and prospective students through a comprehensive understanding of these programs, demonstrating how BMO is not merely a financial institution but a dedicated partner in the newcomers' journey.
17:30 - 17:55 | The future of homestay - bringing modern technology to a traditional homestay industry
📝 Description
With accessibility and affordability being major topics in the student housing industry, Adam & Krista will share why hosted accommodation (homestay) is the emerging trend in the student housing industry.
In today's fast-paced world, the integration of modern technology into the traditional homestay industry is transforming the way students find and experience housing. Homestay is joining this trend! With the emergence of online platforms and a variety of housing options, homestay can now cater to the unique needs and preferences of international students. By focusing on the specific experience of being an international student, homestay provides a tailored matching service that allows students to conveniently access a diverse selection of hosted accommodation options.
Managing student and host expectations is a crucial aspect of the homestay industry. With the support of technology, organizations can ensure that both students and host families have a smooth and positive experience.
18:00 - 18:55 | Responsible recruitment: How institutions and agents can work together to ensure the best outcomes for students
Moderator
Ross Holmes, Executive Director - Digital Services, ICEF GmbH
🎤 Panellists
Sushil Sukhwani, Founder & Director, Edwise International
Blerina Polovina, Director of International Admissions and Business Development, Webster University - USA
Bhanu Vashishth, Vice President- International Business Development & Strategic Relationships, Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
📝 Description
International recruitment agencies play a vital role in connecting students with educational opportunities around the world. At their best, agencies can provide students with expert guidance, support, and advocacy throughout the recruitment process. However, it is important to choose a responsible agency that puts the needs of students first and avoids over-recruitment.
In this panel discussion, we will explore the importance of responsible recruitment in international education. We will discuss how responsible agencies provide students with personalised guidance and support, ensure that the institutions they represent are of high quality, and work to ensure that the universities they recruit for can support the number of international students they admit and encourage students to apply to a variety of programs of study.
Ross Holmes, Executive Director - Digital Services, ICEF GmbH
🎤 Panellists
Sushil Sukhwani, Founder & Director, Edwise International
Blerina Polovina, Director of International Admissions and Business Development, Webster University - USA
Bhanu Vashishth, Vice President- International Business Development & Strategic Relationships, Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
📝 Description
International recruitment agencies play a vital role in connecting students with educational opportunities around the world. At their best, agencies can provide students with expert guidance, support, and advocacy throughout the recruitment process. However, it is important to choose a responsible agency that puts the needs of students first and avoids over-recruitment.
In this panel discussion, we will explore the importance of responsible recruitment in international education. We will discuss how responsible agencies provide students with personalised guidance and support, ensure that the institutions they represent are of high quality, and work to ensure that the universities they recruit for can support the number of international students they admit and encourage students to apply to a variety of programs of study.
13:30 - 15:30 | ICEF Coach - Pre-registration in the ICEF Coach Programme is required
🎤 Speaker
Birgit Hartel, ICEF Coach, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
This 2-hour ICEF Coach Seminar continues the mentoring which began with the one-on-one, individualized consultation, correspondence and interactive training session each pre-registered Coach Programme participant has already completed with the coach before the ICEF event.
The Coach Programme trains and guides first-timers as well as those newer to the international education industry and international student recruitment, so their networking meetings with agents at an ICEF event are as effective and productive as possible. There are 3 phases to the Coach Programme: Before - During - After ... the ICEF event.
The coach also provides ongoing support to the Programme participants during the entire ICEF event, so they maximise their experience meeting with agents overall.
After the event, each Coach Programme participant also receives post-event consultation with the coach as a follow-up. This provides the opportunity to de-brief, give feedback pertaining to their experience at the event and importantly, provides a framework how to move forward as effectively as possible to begin to establish productive agent relationships.
This session is full and closed to new registrants.
Birgit Hartel, ICEF Coach, ICEF GmbH
📝 Description
This 2-hour ICEF Coach Seminar continues the mentoring which began with the one-on-one, individualized consultation, correspondence and interactive training session each pre-registered Coach Programme participant has already completed with the coach before the ICEF event.
The Coach Programme trains and guides first-timers as well as those newer to the international education industry and international student recruitment, so their networking meetings with agents at an ICEF event are as effective and productive as possible. There are 3 phases to the Coach Programme: Before - During - After ... the ICEF event.
The coach also provides ongoing support to the Programme participants during the entire ICEF event, so they maximise their experience meeting with agents overall.
After the event, each Coach Programme participant also receives post-event consultation with the coach as a follow-up. This provides the opportunity to de-brief, give feedback pertaining to their experience at the event and importantly, provides a framework how to move forward as effectively as possible to begin to establish productive agent relationships.
This session is full and closed to new registrants.
