Incorporating group and individual learning, as well as structured and unstructured learning opportunities, the Academy balances the learning needs of the individual with the expectations of the field of international education. Stemming from an initial assessment of the nine proficiencies of international education, the Academy for International Education pursues a rigorous curriculum to develop both the knowledge and skills of participating international educators.
NAFSA understands that each Academy trainee comes to the Academy with a different set of goals and expectations. The Academy allows for individual and flexible learning by encouraging each trainee to set personal and institutional goals to help achieve success throughout the year. Trainees complete three main assignments throughout the year: an individual learning plan, a summer initiative, and a culmination paper.
Academy Curriculum, Assignments, and Events
To successfully complete a Learning Plan and to receive a Certificate of Completion, trainees are expected to fulfill the following assignments and to participate in the following Academy events:
Learning Plan
The foundation for your Academy experience is established by developing an Academy learning plan through which you will identify and prioritize personal and institutional learning objectives. The first draft of your Academy learning plan will be developed and shared with your coach prior to Spring Training. Trainees typically revise their learning plans throughout the Academy year based on the new information and insights gained from the Academy experience.
Spring Training, Virtual (various dates/times between February 24–March 10, 2023)
Join us virtually for intensive learning and networking. Spring Training provides the foundation for your Academy year, with sessions featuring overviews of Comprehensive Internationalization; International Enrollment Management; Education Abroad; International Student Advising; and Advocacy in International Education. Through these sessions you will acquire a broad perspective of the International Education field, connect and network with your professional peers from throughout the field, meet with your coach, and refine your Learning Plan objectives.
NAFSA Annual Conference, Washington, DC (May 30-June 2, 2023)
Academy trainees will receive free registration to NAFSA’s 2023 Annual Conference. Trainees will also reconnect with their coaches and fellow trainees at Academy-specific events scheduled around the Annual Conference. Over the course of these events, networking skills will be refined and strategies developed to maximize conference opportunities. In addition, progress on Learning Plans will be shared.
Summer Focus
In an effort to focus time and energy during the summer months, trainees will identify and dedicate time and energy to accomplish or get on the path toward accomplishing a single learning plan objective.
Culmination and Transition Project
Prior to being awarded a Certificate of Completion, Academy trainees create a culmination and transition project to reflect on and evaluate their learning and progress during the Academy and to identify goals for their continued professional development.
Cohort Connections
Throughout the year, coach-led trainee cohorts will connect in a variety of ways including virtually through the online community, conference calls, and face-to-face at Academy events. Each Academy cohort should determine which communication methods is best suited for its cohort.
