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The international student support team consists of a number of dedicated International Student Advisers, who can provide expert advice, information and guidance on a wide range of issues. The team offers practical information and advice to our overseas students to help you settle in to your new life in the UK.
We have a fantastic social events and work placements team. They have developed the placement programme to give you the opportunity to gain valuable work experience during your studies through undertaking placements that may be paid or voluntary.
It's not all work and no play though! Our international social events team provide one of the most comprehensive and enjoyable social programmes for international students in the whole country, with day trips around the UK every weekend during term time and longer visits to Europe during vacation periods.
Tom advises international students on visa applications in the UK and necessary letters; working regulations in the UK; and accommodation, including Host UK.
He can also help with welfare issues, safety and security, orientation and airport pick-ups.
"I chose the University because of the friendly, international, open-minded atmosphere.
Before working here I was a cabin crew member for British Airways, an English teacher in Japan, and worked in Harrods in London!"
Syeda’s role is to provide general advice on all matters relating to international students, to assist students with visa applications and immigration advice during and after studies, and to help students settle into life at University and in the surrounding area when they first arrive. "When the job was advertised it seemed to be an interesting & challenging role. It did not disappoint me. Student immigration law has developed so much in the time I have worked in this role.
"I really enjoy helping students to become familiar with the University and to settle into their new surroundings when they arrive. Seeing them develop during their time with us and seeing them leave as successful graduates is very rewarding!"
Nurun is responsible for providing general advice and ongoing welfare support to all international students. She specialises in immigration advice and provides workshops and presentations to assist students with visa procedures and developments in immigration law.
"I graduated from University of Bedfordshire with LLB (Hons) and went into advisory work with the Law Centre. I then became a trained caseworker at Citizens Advice Bureau. As I also had an interest in teaching; I worked as a teaching assistant in a local college for a while. Then I grabbed this fantastic opportunity – it seemed challenging and interesting - and it certainly provides me with a varied and interesting workload."
Sumana is the the representative of the International Office at our Bedford campus. She provides immigration advice to international students, including issuing CAS extension and Post Study Work letters. She is the contact point for international student welfare at the Bedford campus and her role also encompasses organising events for international students in Bedford.
"Before joining the University, I worked for the UK Border Agency at the British Embassy in Bangkok and the British Council in Thailand. I like the University because of its vibrant, multicultural and friendly atmosphere. My colleagues are very supportive and always there when I need them!"
There are two distinct purposes to Sarah's role. The first one is to assist with the development and co-ordination of a varied and stimulating programme of International Student Work Placements within a wide range of employment disciplines.
The second is the organisation and co-ordination/administration of a wide range of social events for international students and staff. This includes both the creation of new events as well as the administration of established events.
"Before joining the University of Bedfordshire International Office, I worked for 15 years in various roles and areas of the country in the banking industry.
"I joined the University because I wanted the chance to bring together all the organisational and communication skills I had gained throughout my career.
I thought that this role would give me the chance to meet people from all over the world and really enhance their experience in the UK - and it has lived up to that expectation!"
Shahzad works together with Sarah to organise the international social events programme and is also responsible for providing a customer focused service to our students by responding to student queries, referring queries onto specialist areas where appropriate, offering advice to students, and ensuring they receive the correct information.
"I had always wanted to work for a University and I felt that Bedfordshire was very forward-looking and student-focused."
"I really like the friendly working environment in the office."
"In my spare time I love to play cricket!"
Craig is involved in the smooth running of the International Office, and ensuring that the best possible service is provided to students. This ranges from sending out prospectuses and other information to individual prospective students or recruitment fairs, to greeting and answering queries on the front desk.
"The University, and the International Office in particular, have a really good, friendly atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome. Also no day is the same and my role is extremely varied and enjoyable.
"Before I joined I had just finished my own degree in Environmental Sciences at the University of East Anglia in Norwich and had been looking for work, whilst getting in shape in start for the new rugby season. I have played rugby at age group level for Nuneaton RFC, as well as representing Nuneaton & North Warwickshire District. I am a published poet, and have taken part in the European Youth Parliament."
Aizhan supports the enrolment of students on the Erasmus exchanges programme, by processing the application forms from outgoing students, maintaining regular contact with our partner Institutions, liaising with relevant faculties with regards to students' registration, and preparing offer letters and transcripts. She organises inducton and orientation for incoming exchange students, and offers further support throughout the academic year.
"What I like the most in my job is excellent team environment in the office. Personally, I consider working at Bedfordshire as a great opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in business area.
"I am a person that likes nature, art and literature. My favourite painter is Vincent Van Gogh. I prefer to spend my free time at the gym. My hobby is mountain skiing. I like Alps mountains. While I am skiing I enjoy the fresh mountain air and serene environment."
