Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Becoming a citizen of the world requires experience with a multiplicity of cultures. At Hobart and William Smith, international and exchange students from more than 30 nations enrich and enhance the HWS campus.

International Student Success sponsors and co-sponsors events designed to promote cross-cultural sharing between the many groups at the Colleges and Geneva communities, promoting a pluralistic and democratic community.

The Office of International Student Success also advocates for and addresses the needs of our international population by providing programs and services related to immigration matters.

CONTACT

Marylyn Uhnak
Associate Vice President for Admissions
uhnak@hws.edu
Phone: (315) 781-3750
Text: (315) 290-3623
WeChat: hws_marylyn

Sherri Martin-Baron
International Student Success Manager
smartinbaron@hws.edu
Phone: (315) 781-3048
Office: Scandling 107B

Shelle Basilio-Murray
Associate Vice President for Campus Life and Dean of Student Wellness and Support
basilio@hws.edu

Student EngagementHWS Admissions

SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AT HWS

HWS will be with you every step of the way, from preparing and filing paperwork, to picking you up from the airport, to helping you acclimate to life on campus.

Before arriving on campus:
HWS supports international students prior to their arrival by assisting with all visa-related issues, including the issuance of the I-20 form. By working closely with the offices of Admissions and Financial Aid, the International Student Success Manager ensures smooth navigation through the complex process of obtaining the proper documentation to study here in the United States.

Day of arrival:
When students arrive in the United States by themselves, HWS will provide transportation from the Rochester (ROC) or Syracuse (SYR) airport. In addition, the Office of International Student Success provides a small “goodie” bag with some great treats for the weary traveler, as well as bedding and basic toiletries, until the student can obtain their own. We then provide a very specific orientation for our new international students as well as U.S. students who have been living abroad. This comprehensive program takes place over a three-day period and involves a welcome dinner with some faculty and staff, team building and bonding, a visa workshop, understanding supports on campus and some fun recreational activities to help students get acclimated. We will also bring students shopping and assist with banking concerns.

After arriving on campus:
After orientation, the Office of International Student Success, in cooperation with the Hobart and William Smith Deans offices, Human Resources, and Office of Student Engagement, assists students in all facets of working, studying and living on our liberal arts campus. The International Student Success Manager serves as mentor, adviser and friend to our international students. The office provides programming for the students both throughout the academic year as well as over breaks, as many international students remain on campus throughout the year. We also have a wonderful host family program for those students who would like additional support. We always encourage students to take full advantage of the breadth of curricular and co-curricular options available to all HWS community members. Our ultimate goal is to have all international students feel that they are fully a part of the greater HWS and Geneva communities.