Michelle Lopez
Director of Global Education, SIO/DSO
Michelle.Lopez@Oneonta.edu
128F Hunt Union
607-436-3369
- Oversees the Office of Global Education's mission and work.
- Builds and maintains international partnerships.
- Assists faculty in pursuit of global connections (COIL, fellowships, exchange, etc.).
- Has spent time studying and working in Cuba, studying in Mexico (Yucatán), studying in Spain, working in Costa Rica, and traveling in Japan, Guyana, Argentina, Canada, Morocco, and western Europe.
Denise Leinonen
Assistant Director of Global Education, PDSO/EVA
Denise.Leinonen@oneonta.edu
128D Hunt Union
Experiential Learning Center
607-436-2463
- Advises F-1 International Students and J-1 Exchange Visitors as the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) and Exchange Visitor Advisor (EVA) on visa status maintenance, cultural and academic adjustment, and work authorization.
- Admits incoming international exchange and visiting students from SUNY Oneonta international partner institutions.
- Program coordinator and advisor for all SUNY Oneonta study abroad programs.
- Has spent time living in Austria, studying in India, working as an ELL instructor in South Korea, and traveling to countries throughout Europe and Asia.
Elizabeth Cruzado Carranza, PhD
Faculty-Led Programs Coordinator
Elizabeth.CruzadoCarranza@oneonta.edu
128A Hunt Union
Experiential Learning Center
607-436-2461
- Oversees international faculty-led programs processes.
- Advises students and faculty on best practices for faculty-led programs.
- Advisor for the American College of Greece (ACG) Oneonta study abroad program
- Has spent time living, studying and working in Peru. Has also traveled to Argentina and Bolivia.
Lester Lamoree
Office Assistant
Lester.Lamoree@oneonta.edu
128E Hunt Union
Experiential Learning Center
607-436-3369
- Front desk liaison.
- Responds to phone calls and inquiries to main office phone number and email account.
- Assists with OGE Global Portal.
- Performs general office duties.
- Has spent time traveling in the UK.
Student Employees
Gabriella Scotto
OGE Student Office & Study Abroad Assistant
Email: SCOTGA888@oneonta.edu
Year: Junior
Major: Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing
Studied abroad through our American College of Greece Program
Jacob Agosto
OGE Student Office & Study Abroad Assistant
Email: Agosj861@oneonta.edu
Year: Senior
Major: Music Industry
Studied abroad through our Seinan Gakuin University Program in Japan
Kaelin O’Connor
OGE Student Office & Study Abroad Assistant
Email: oconkf753@oneonta.edu
Year: Senior
Major: Business Administration
Studied abroad at Fulda University in Germany through SUNY Cortland
Kim Catalan
Peer Mentor
Email: CATAKD590@oneonta.edu
Year: Second Semester Freshman
Major: Fashion Design
I am Guatemalan, and I am an aspiring fashion designer who is hoping to make a change in the fashion industry. My hobbies are reading, dancing, and listening to music!
Something on my bucket list: Traveling around the world and attending many fashion shows.
Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: I was friends with the peer mentors and became friends with some of the international students as well. I found it interesting how they had a big impact on the lives of the mentees, and how the position of a peer mentor is to help others and be a guide for them. I loved the idea of being able to help others and introduce them to a new culture.
Advice to international students: Focus on your goals and create a mindset where you feel comfortable with yourself and being open minded. Also enjoy the time for present you and prepare yourself for FUTURE you.
Moe Figueroa
Peer Mentor
Email: figug578@oneonta.edu
Year: Junior
Major: Media Studies
I have traveled around to PR, GUATEMALA, El Salvador, Canada & more. I can speak 3 languages. I’m also a Dragon Guide for this Fall semester and I love being involved around campus!
Something on my bucket list: I would love to try and achieve to produce and write in my future career an animated movie for kids.
Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: My friends who were mentors, encouraged me to apply. I was always told that I am a reliable support for individuals who are new to the country I can also relate to them as a person who has experience with moving to a new country. I believe assisting these upcoming students means that they can feel comfortable to share their experiences and obstacles together.
Advice to international students: ASK QUESTIONS!! if you ask questions i can be a helpful guide for you and don’t be shy to get out of your comfort level and try new things!
Tess O’Driscoll
Peer Mentor
Email: odrita937@oneonta.edu
Year: Senior
Major: Communication Studies
I'm from Westchester, NY. I have studied abroad in Spain and Greece! I have two cats and a dog. I love to read, draw, and run.
Something on my bucket list: Skydiving!
Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: I want to be able to help international students feel comfortable at Oneonta. I want to make their transition smooth and help them meet new people and have a great experience.
Advice to international students: Don't be afraid to try new things! Go to a variety of events and join clubs that you are interested in.
Sabrina Sholes
Peer Mentor
Email: sholsl639@oneonta.edu
Year: Sophomore
Major: Anthropology
I was born in Northern California and grew up between the beautiful states of Nevada and California. I’ve had the opportunity to explore Santa Catalina Island and Mexico. In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, practicing archery, and experimenting with creative makeup looks.
Something on my bucket list: I want to become fluent in two other languages and write a complete book series!
Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: I wanted to become a peer mentor because some of my friends from other countries have shared their struggles with adjusting to life in America. They’ve told me how having a supportive friend really helped them through the culture shock. When I found out about the peer mentor program for international students, I got excited about the opportunity to help others going through similar experiences. My goal is to create a welcoming environment for international students, so they can explore the beauty of our country and connect with people from all over the world. I also can’t wait to learn about their home countries and cultures, which will enrich my knowledge too!
Advice to international students: Don't hesitate to reach out for support whenever you need it! Remember to practice self-care and take time to do something that brings you a sense of home. This will help feel less home-sick! Explore and make new friends!
Grace Song
Peer Mentor
Email: songgh871@oneonta.edu
Year: Junior
Major: Childhood Education (B-6): Concentration in Liberal Arts
I was born in South Korea; I can speak Korean and English fluently. My hobbies are; listening to music, traveling to Korea, and trying new food.
Something on my bucket list: Traveling around Asia and learning a new language
Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: After meeting the former international students, I learned about their culture and enjoyed being around them. I wanted to learn a lot more, so when I got the opportunity to be a peer mentor I applied.
Advice to international students: Join clubs and get involved in different activities/events. Grab some coffee from Starbucks and hang out with friends at the OGE lounge.