International Education Needs a Better Story: Emily Merson Talks Advocacy & Access

The positive impacts of international education on career readiness and student success are well-known in the industry, but lack understanding and support on a governmental level. Funding barriers keep students from studying abroad and policy uncertainties harm international students learning in the US. Emily Merson, global leader and entrepreneur, wants international education to tell a better story: one where the benefits and positives of well-rounded learning experiences are supported and understood by stakeholders and everyday individuals alike. Key Insights & Timestamps: [00:00] Podcast begins [01:00] The Reluctant Entrepreneur: Global background & career inspiration [02:44] Career Readiness vs Funding Challenges: International ed challenges on all levels [05:20] Telling a Better International Ed Story: Surviving existential threats with a new voice [10:58] Professional Mentorship: Leveraging skills to coach professional growth [13:27] Rapid Fire Questions: Emily talks mindfulness, access, awareness, & entrepreneurship Guest Spotlight Emily Merson: Emily Merson is a highly accomplished and results-oriented global leader with a proven track record of driving innovation, leading global initiatives, and implementing transformational change for US and global universities. Her expertise is in executive leadership, strategic planning, innovation, business development, sustainability, program development, business for good, cross-cultural collaboration, and building high-performing happy teams. In her most recent position at AIFS Abroad (2021-2025), Emily’s leadership and strategic vision have steered her US-based team during a period of rapid change and merging of two leading global education organizations. The last 5 years of her career have been focused on building guiding values and excellence in academics and outcomes for a new organization. Key Takeaways: Funding Woes: “I think the biggest challenge that everyone is facing is scarcity of funding, and who is responsible for fixing that challenge for students and universities.” As international education continues to evolve, Emily sees both struggles and victories on the horizon in regards to funding and scholarships. Emily hopes that companies like AIFS Abroad are seen as partners to universities and students, united under one goal to further access and affordability. Existential Threats: “What we need is a way better story [in international education] about who we really are and what we do.” As international policies change and funding freezes, navigating 2025 is a major test for international education as an industry. Emily and like-minded global education professionals are seeking to unite efforts and convey the value of international education to impact policies and keep international and abroad students safe. Growth Mindset: “It took me 10 years to get anyone to listen to me, and I hope that’s not the case any more [in education].” International education has a scarcity mindset crisis and a serious need for innovation. Emily hopes that upcoming entrepreneurs feel inspired and engaged in the global education community to help solve pressing issues and embrace new technology. Resources Mentioned: AIFS Abroad | aifsabroad.com, 2016 Global Internship Conference Debate in Boston Connect with Emily: LinkedIn For More Information: Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources. Stay Connected: Support Via Voices by subscribing on YouTube: youtube.com/@viatrm Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/via-voices Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3R0BcoxUC6Xzr1SW7CCT2t