Iman Essamati

Resident Director

Born and raised in Meknes, Iman has a Bachelor's degree in Applied Linguistics and a Master's degree in Communication in Contexts from Mly Ismail University. Iman joined the ISA family in 2008, and working within the field of international education has been a dream come true. She is fluent in classical Arabic, Darija, French and English, and speaks some Italian and German. Iman is a very dedicated and devoted person to her work and enjoy introducing her students to their host culture in Morocco.This remarkable experience with ISA helped her realize how much she likes traveling, which led her to travel extensively to many countries like the USA, Spain, France, Italy, Portugal, Switzerland, the UK, the Czech Republic, Germany and Austria. Iman is a passionate reader and an adventerous soul, and she believes that learning is her life mission.

Ouma Mpela

Resident Director

Ouma Mogale-Mpela has over 20 years of experience in international higher education in South Africa. She was born in the northwest part of South Africa in a small village town called Itsoseng. She moved to Cape Town in the late ‘90s to further her studies in Human Resources Management but later joined the International Office at the University of Cape Town as their Semester Studies Abroad Program Coordinator. Ouma has been a Resident Director in South Africa since 2004. She enjoys and excels at building solid and lasting relationships. She considers herself a student of life, loves traveling to new places, and is the mother of four beautiful children.

Nomsa Xubane

Resident Director

Nomsa Xubane is the Resident Director based in Gqeberha, previously known as Port Elizabeth. She is passionate about meeting new people and strives to be a good host. Nomsa has been working with international students for over ten years. She is a also photographer and enjoys outdoor activities.

Medusa Fang

Resident Director, China

Medusa is a native of Shanghai with over 13 years of experience in international education. Having obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English Language from Fudan University and a Master of Arts in Sociology from the University of Hong Kong, her academic background in international cultural exchange has provided a foundation for a career spent working with top-level universities and organizations from around the world. Prior to joining ISA, Medusa complimented her work with international students by teaching university coursework in English and Chinese Culture and Folklore.

Niaya Harper Igarashi

Resident Director

Originally from the United States, but has resided in Japan since 2009, Niaya joined ISA in 2014 as Resident Director of the Tokyo office. She graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana with a BA in History and Spanish, and after a semester abroad in London went on to complete an MA in International Business at Webster University's London campus. During that time her passion for travel and cultural discovery flourished. Prior to ISA she worked in international business development and marketing in London, Houston and New York before settling in Tokyo. In her free time she enjoys hiking, volunteering both locally and abroad, and considers herself a lifelong learner. Niaya is devoted to sharing her love of Japan with the students and helping them realize the many opportunities post studying abroad.

Yeseul Park

Resident Director

Yeseul studied Childcare and Family Counseling at Dong-eui university in Busan, South Korea. After her first year at university, Yeseul was longing for new adventures. This longing drew her to new cultures, and she traveled to Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, the Philippines and Indonesia. Her great passion is sharing and spreading the cultures she has experienced with people who are open and willing to accept them. Yeseul's best strength is to make people feel comfortable using her excellent communication skills, pleasant demeanor, and smile.

During her last year of university, Yeseul joined a university program that encouraged exchange students from Thailand to learn about Korean culture. She spent a month guiding Thai students in their after-school activities. This experience influenced her to seek out the position at ISA. She is excited to start sharing the culture of South Korea with the ISA students.

Euisoo Chang

Internship Coordinator

I was born and raised up in Seoul, South Korea. After traveling to Europe during high school, I decided to study abroad for university. I am a graduate SUNY Plattsburgh, majored in Hospitality Management and also participated in National Student Exchange program in Hilo, Hawaii. Following graduation, I went to Tokyo, Japan on a Working holiday to explore  different Asian cultures and fell in love with Japan. After my visit in Japan, studying Japanese, watching Japanese drama became of my favorite hobbies and I love to travel hidden part of Japan. I also have traveled to more than 30 countries and am still wanting to see more beauty of the world. Before joining ISA Seoul, I worked in the hotel business in South Korea and Canada for 5 years and it improved my quality of service skills.

Minhee Lee

Student Service Manager

Born and raised in Seoul, Minhee graduated with a BA in English Language and Literature in Korea. After her study she participated in an international internship program sponsored by the Korean government and started her internship in San Francisco. She believes that it was a meaningful process for her to learn how to communicate in an environment where she has to interact with people from different cultures. In her spare time, she likes exploring different coffee places, hunting around vintage shops and seeking adventures all around the world. So far, she has travelled to nineteen countries, over sixty cities, and is planning to visit some more!

Natcha Waisuebkhao

Resident Director

Natcha was born and raised in Chiang Mai, Thailand, what she considers to be the friendliest city in the world. As a cultural exchange student at Walt Disney World during summer break in college, Natcha realized how much she loves making magic and seeing people happy. After this life-changing experience, she moved back to Thailand, finished her degree, and started her career as a sports liaison officer, where she worked with sports teams from around the world. She continued her work with travelers from across the globe as a Program Leader with the Experiment in International Living in Thailand. Natcha especially enjoys meeting new people and learning about different cultural backgrounds.

Duc Nguyen

Resident Director

Born and raised in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Duc joined the ISA team in 2019 as the Resident Director in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. He graduated from RMIT University in Australia with a Bachelor's of Commerce in 2012 and Master's of Business Administration in 2017. Prior to joining ISA, Duc worked for JPMorgan Chase for 2 years before he switched to RMIT University Vietnam to help recrute students from all over the world. Duc is enthusiastic about embracing his own Vietnamese culture and sharing it with his international friends.

Daniela Procházka

Resident Director

Daniela has been ISA's Resident Director in Prague since 2008. She graduated from the University of Economics in Prague with a Master's degree in Human Relations Studies and International Trade. In 2004, Daniela spent 6 months on the Work and Travel Program in the USA in New Jersey. In order to improve her knowledge of economics and HR, she also studied at the University in Zurich in 2006. She has taught English at the Institute of Language and Preparatory Studies of the Charles University since 2002. Daniela enjoys spending time with her family and friends, loves playing beach volleyball, traveling, learning languages and likes good coffee. Her professional background and energetic personality make her a great asset to the ISA team.

Lucie Smitkova

Student Services Coordinator

Lucie joined the ISA family during the summer of 2009. In spring 2010, Lucie graduated from the Faculty of Education at Charles University with a Master's degree in English Language and Literature and German Language and Literature. Lucie provides Czech language tutorials for ISA students wanting to improve their language skills, and is dedicated to making the student experience in Prague an excellent one. She loves traveling and has been to almost every country in Western Europe. In an effort to improve her language and teaching skills, Lucie spent one year in Germany attending the University of Bonn specializing in German, American, and English literature. She also spent time in Florida where her interactions with American and international students showed her the unique opportunity to help students join two worlds together and while sharing the beauties of the Czech Republic.

Tomas Uher

Academic and Housing Coordinator

Tomas joined ISA Prague team in 2016. He graduated from the Faculty of Education of Charles University with a Master’s degree in English and History. To expand his horizons Tomas went to study abroad in Dublin for one semester and also spent a working summer in Maine, USA. For 3 years he worked for Charles University in the Information and Advisory Center where he was in charge of communication with foreign prospective students. In ISA Tomas deals with matters related to Academics and Housing. He is a passionate climber and the best way for him to re-charge his batteries is hiking in the mountains. Tomas follows a healthy lifestyle, but he can never say no to a sweet pastry. Therefore you can find him both in a climbing gym or a café or bakery with a delicious cake in his hands.

Marina Kozhuharova

Assistant Resident Director

Marina joined ISA in 2010 after graduating from King's College London with a degree in International Commercial and Financial Law. Marina has traveled extensively throughout Europe and believes that study abroad is essential to personal growth and offers fantastic opportunities to discover the world at large. Among her favorite places in London are the River Thames Embankment, Tower Bridge and Greenwich Park. Marina is very excited to show the ISA students London's diverse cultural and historic heritage.

Eloise Casey

Student Services

Eloise studied American History at the University of East Anglia which included a year abroad at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. Ever since engaging in her own personal abroad adventures, Eloise has been passionate about getting others involved in pursuing their own study abroad opportunities. Eloise actively tries to visit as many European cities as possible and therefore is a great resource for students as she has lots of travel recommendations. She enjoys making and drinking coffee, as well as watching films and TV. Her favorite places within London are Shoreditch and the Wimbledon Tennis Club, and she has a great list for fun day trips outside the Capital as well.

Joseph Sullivan

Student Services

Joseph studied Business Information Technology at Kingston University, including a study abroad year in Hong Kong, which is when he discovered his passion for study abroad. Upon graduating he began working for ISA’s London team. As a London native, Joseph enjoys sharing the city’s culture with students and helping them achieve their study abroad goals.

Joseph is a keen traveler and loves exploring different cultures. Some of his other interests include football, technology, and photography. His favorite places in London are Richmond park and the British Museum.

Marina Kozhuharova

Assistant Resident Director

Marina joined ISA in 2010 after graduating from King's College London with a degree in International Commercial and Financial Law. Marina has traveled extensively throughout Europe and believes that study abroad is essential to personal growth and offers fantastic opportunities to discover the world at large. Among her favorite places in London are the River Thames Embankment, Tower Bridge and Greenwich Park. Marina is very excited to show the ISA students London's diverse cultural and historic heritage.

Joseph Sullivan

Student Services

Joseph studied Business Information Technology at Kingston University, including a study abroad year in Hong Kong, which is when he discovered his passion for study abroad. Upon graduating he began working for ISA’s London team. As a London native, Joseph enjoys sharing the city’s culture with students and helping them achieve their study abroad goals.

Joseph is a keen traveler and loves exploring different cultures. Some of his other interests include football, technology, and photography. His favorite places in London are Richmond park and the British Museum.

Marina Kozhuharova

Assistant Resident Director

Marina joined ISA in 2010 after graduating from King's College London with a degree in International Commercial and Financial Law. Marina has traveled extensively throughout Europe and believes that study abroad is essential to personal growth and offers fantastic opportunities to discover the world at large. Among her favorite places in London are the River Thames Embankment, Tower Bridge and Greenwich Park. Marina is very excited to show the ISA students London's diverse cultural and historic heritage.

Eloise Casey

Student Services

Eloise studied American History at the University of East Anglia which included a year abroad at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. Ever since engaging in her own personal abroad adventures, Eloise has been passionate about getting others involved in pursuing their own study abroad opportunities. Eloise actively tries to visit as many European cities as possible and therefore is a great resource for students as she has lots of travel recommendations. She enjoys making and drinking coffee, as well as watching films and TV. Her favorite places within London are Shoreditch and the Wimbledon Tennis Club, and she has a great list for fun day trips outside the Capital as well.

Joseph Sullivan

Student Services

Joseph studied Business Information Technology at Kingston University, including a study abroad year in Hong Kong, which is when he discovered his passion for study abroad. Upon graduating he began working for ISA’s London team. As a London native, Joseph enjoys sharing the city’s culture with students and helping them achieve their study abroad goals.

Joseph is a keen traveler and loves exploring different cultures. Some of his other interests include football, technology, and photography. His favorite places in London are Richmond park and the British Museum.

Annamaria Antonopoulos

Resident Director

A longtime resident of Paris, Annamaria Antonopoulos is an ideal Resident Director. From personal experience, education, and professional background, she is keenly familiar with all aspects of the study abroad experience. Her degrees include a Bachelors in French Literature and a Masters in French For Foreigners. Before joining ISA, Annamaria did similar work, teaching French Language, Culture, and History to Hungarian and Romanian professors and American students living in Paris. Her current position allows her to further demonstrate her ability to work with people by coordinating a meaningful ISA program. When interacting with students, her characteristics shine through: passionate, organized, methodic, hardworking, enthusiastic, easy-going, fun, and always smiling!

Annamaria Antonopoulos

Resident Director

A longtime resident of Paris, Annamaria Antonopoulos is an ideal Resident Director. From personal experience, education, and professional background, she is keenly familiar with all aspects of the study abroad experience. Her degrees include a Bachelors in French Literature and a Masters in French For Foreigners. Before joining ISA, Annamaria did similar work, teaching French Language, Culture, and History to Hungarian and Romanian professors and American students living in Paris. Her current position allows her to further demonstrate her ability to work with people by coordinating a meaningful ISA program. When interacting with students, her characteristics shine through: passionate, organized, methodic, hardworking, enthusiastic, easy-going, fun, and always smiling!

Gabriel Antonopoulos

Assistant Director

Gabriel Antonopoulos Originally joined ISA Paris team in 2003 to assist with technical operations and coordinate Customized Programs.Today he’s Assistant Director, Director of Student Services, Paris Customized Programs Manager and also in charge of the administrative tasks.He have a Master's degree in Mathematical Sciences and Data Processing from the University of Paris with an undergraduate degree in Business and he have taught Computer Science courses in vocational training programs. Prior to joining ISA he was Director of Marketing and Commerce for High Tech Solutions. Gabriel he’s a French citizen fluent in French and Greek with working knowledge of English.He traveled throughout several countries and he is in Paris since 1973. 

Delphine Lechevalier

Homestay & Student Services Coordinator

Delphine was born and raised in the Parisian region. At Panthéon-Sorbonne University, she studied Art History and Tourism. As an intern, she had the opportunity to be a guide, and now she is very happy helping students discover Paris. She loves Paris and is very excited to be able to share the French culture and patrimony with her students. She also plays the flute in an orchestra, and she is always happy to bring students to musical concerts or cultural activities -especially the ballet at the Paris Opéra Hall!

Lea Gillot

Student Services Coordinator

Born and raised in the South of France, Lea comes from a bicultural French and American family. After finishing her undergrad in Literature, she enrolled in a double master’s program in the field of Cultural Studies with the University of Montpellier and the University of Heidelberg, with a special focus on Race & Ethnic Studies. Her year in Germany as a master’s student has sparked her interest in the study abroad field. She has also been involved with several cultural institutions in France, Germany, and the United States. Even though she is not originally from Paris, she feels right at home in the city of lights but loves to talk about her native city of Aix-en-Provence and the South of France. Her favorite thing to do in Paris is go thrifting, explore the city, or read in a café.

Hedvika Tichá

Resident Director

Originally from a small town in the Czech Republic, Hedvika has been living abroad since 2008. She studied the Humanities in Prague and graduated from the Complutense University of Madrid with a MA in Spanish language and literature. Her passion for Hispanic culture led her to travel throughout South America and all over Spain. After the academic year at Humboldt University, she found her home in Berlin, as no other city could better feed her curiosity and eclectic interests ranging from yoga to Argentine tango. Hedvika loves to show ISA students hidden gems and encourage their own inner and outer exploration. Her enthusiasm for people and places is highly contagious. 

Celia Arrendondo

Resident Director

Celia was born and raised in Granada, Spain, where she studied Translation and Interpreting at the University of Granada. In addition to Spanish, she is proficient in French and English and has additional language abilities in Greek, Dutch, and Spanish Sign Language. After a year of living and studying in France, she returned to Seville, Spain to earn a Master's in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language. Since joining our team she has assisted with ISA programs in Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Malaga, discovering that her background is a perfect fit for helping international students navigate and appreciate other cultures. In 2019, she accepted the position of Athens Resident Director, and since then she has put her cross-cultural skills to work by embracing Greece as her new home. A trained musician, Celia plays the trumpet in orchestras and enjoys singing in public with friends. She also loves travel, nature, and sports.

Eugenia Giannakis

Student Services Coordinator

Eugenia was born and raised in Athens, Greece. When she was 16 she had the chance to move abroad to Canada and study there for a few years. It was an experience that taught her a lot about the world and different cultures and she also realized that It was something she saw herself doing in a few years. After graduating from the Aegean University with a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Tourism Administration and a specialization in Environmental Management and Tourism Planning, she certain that this academic background will be specially useful to help students feeling at home. 

Cooking is a big part of her culture, especially for a large group of people and is something she loves doing in her free time for her friends and family.

Niamh Hayes

Resident Director

Niamh is a graduate from a Masters of Sociology (Applied Social Research) and previous to that a graduate of a BA in History, Politics, Sociology and Social Studies from the University of Limerick, Niamh's hometown. Dublin is now Niamh's second home and she is excited to welcome all students to Ireland's capital city. A keen traveler, Niamh caught the travel bug from when she studied abroad in Prague, Czech Republic. From there, she explored and fell in love with all that Europe has to offer. She was fortunate to explore both western and eastern Europe and enjoyed exploring many unique and amazing cities. Niamh, along side the Irish team, look forward to supporting students as they seek out international experiences of their own.

Aileen O'Flaherty

Resident Director

Aileen is originally from the small county of Laois in the middle of Ireland. She recently moved home from Dubai, where she lived and taught for two years. Previous to this, she studied at University College Cork where she studied Social Science. Following her degree in 2014, Aileen traveled and worked in Chicago for four months. While living abroad Aileen had the amazing opportunity to travel to countries such as Australia, India, Cambodia and Sri Lanka. Aileen’s love for Ireland is what brought her home. Aileen believes that ISA can provide students with an unforgettable experience, which they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. She is very eager to welcome students to Ireland and has no doubt that they will instantly fall in love with its unique heritage.

Angela Weber

Resident Director

Angela was born and raised in the city of Aachen, Germany. She earned a degree in Social Work and completed training to become a Systemic Coach from the Catholic University of North Rhine-Westphalia. Having lived and worked in the US, Ireland, Spain, and Poland before, Angela decided to follow her passion and combine her love for two countries while working for ISA in Ireland. Angela is an advocate for studying and traveling outside of one’s comfort zone and gaining a deeper understanding of the terms culture and diversity. She supports and accompanies the students on their journey of discovery and learning.

Alessia Foianesi

Resident Director

Born and raised in Florence, Alessia studied Cultural Events Management at the University of Florence with a major in History of Cinema. She interned for a cultural association in a short film festival production in Tuscany. After graduating, she moved to the United States to work as an Au Pair in New Jersey. She joined the ISA team shortly after her American experience. She plays beach volleyball in her spare time and she likes cooking for her friends. She believes that the best way to learn while traveling is by meeting locals, that is why she values the role of the ISA on site staff so much! She is looking forward to meeting ISA students and share with them her love for Florence and the Italian Culture!

Ola (Aleksandra) Smolen

Senior Academic Coordinator

Ola (Aleksandra), native to Poland, discovered the joys of working with students during her time as a Human Rights trainer for Amnesty International. She moved  to Florence in 2007 to study for a year at the Università degli Studi di Firenze through the European Student Exchange program Erasmus. She was curious to experience daily life in a foreign culture and to explore the beauty of Florence. She was so enchanted by her experience that she decided to stay in Italy after she had completed her Master's degree in Sociology. 
She likes to spend her free time immersed in marvelous realism literature. She also loves to be active – after work you can meet her running or biking around Florence!

Perla Signori

Italy Custom Program Director

Born and raised in Florence, Perla has an academic and personal background in cultural exchange. She received her degree from the Università di Firenze in Foreign Languages and Literatures. Following graduation, Perla relocated to London for one year to work and study. While there, she completed Cambridge’s Certificate. Her experience living abroad was both challenging and rewarding and served to confirm her belief that cultural immerse provides a truly unique learning experience. She worked at Kent State University in Florence before joining ISA in August 2007. She has covered different positions and worked in several areas of the Florence Office, this helped her to gain the competency across all the ISA departments during the years. Perla enjoys rollerblading, playing with her poodle dog and eating good Tuscan food!

Stefano Casati

Cultural Activities & Custom Program Coordinator

Stefano graduated from the University of Florence in Political Science and he has a PhD in Sociology. During his doctoral studies, he worked at the International Relations Office of the Faculty of Political Sciences and through this experience he had the opportunity to learn the multiple benefits associated with study abroad programs. He moved to Paris in 2012 and he enrolled as Erasmus student at Paris-Sorbonne University for his doctoral research. He strongly believes that study abroad programs and cultural exchanges are invaluable resources for students that aim to get a satisfying career and an open-minded approach to the various aspects of life. He can't wait to meet the students and do his best to make their experience in Florence as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

Sabrina Landini

Senior Cultural Activities Coordinator & Custom Programs

Luca Garotti

Resident Director

Luca was born in Padua, he was also raised for long periods of his childhood between Milan and Rome, but he considers Milan his home. Due to his tendency to travel, he decided to move to Scotland, Edinburgh, where he has spent six years working and studying. At the end of the Scottish experience, he has managed to gain a BA Honours degree in Creative Sound Production and an internship at BBC Scotland. Back in Milan, he was accepted at Bocconi school of Management, where he graduated in the Master in Arts Management. After graduating, he started working for Globalinks and then for ISA, where he started learning and appreciate the study abroad industry.  Luca is passionate about Italy and Milan and he likes when his recommendations are appreciated by students!  His approach is to show students the authentic parts of the city where locals live, his aim is to give students opportunities to practice both mainstream and exclusive experiences.

Mattea Di Fabio

Resident Director

A lifelong resident of Rome, Mattea Di Fabio is the foundation of our ISA Rome staff. She has been with ISA since 2004 and is the ISA Rome Resident Director. Mattea graduated from the University of Rome (La Sapienza) with a bachelor's degree in Humanistic and Historical Studies. She has traveled extensively throughout Europe, and her background includes extensive work with Italian high school students studying abroad in England, Ireland, Austria, France, and Malta. She also has experience in Italian primary and secondary schools, where she worked as a teaching consultant helping teachers develop a more critical awareness with their pedagogy and lesson planning.

Mara Cecili

Student Services

Mara Cecili was born in Rome, where she is currently living.  She graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Modern Languages (English and Spanish) at the Rome University La Sapienza, where she is currently finishing the last year of her Master's degree.  She has traveled throughout Europe (England, Ireland, Spain etc.) and has had the opportunity to deepen her knowledge of art and architecture – both of which are her passions since her years at art school.  Mara looks forward to working with ISA Rome students to make sure their stay in her home city is unforgettable!

Vera Contu

Assistant Resident Director/Housing Coordinator

Vera was born in Rome and has lived there her entire life. She graduated from La Sapienza University in Rome with bachelor's degree in Philosophy. She has qualification certificates in Co-operative Management and Web Design from the Lazio Region in Italy. She is well-traveled throughout Europe, and both North and South America. Vera has worked at summer camps as an Activity Manager with Italian high school students during their time in England and Ireland. She also has experience working with Italian primary school students as a teaching consultant where she assisted teachers as they developed informational computer projects. She enjoys volunteering with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Initiatives and has collaborated with them in Greece, Sardinia and Tunisia.

Elena White

Resident Director

Elena moved with her family from the US to Glasgow when she was a child. Having grown up in Glasgow, she studied in Santa Barbara, California and graduated with a BA in Theatre Arts. Elena has always loved to travel and counts her own university experience in California as an extended study abroad. She considers this one of the best decisions she's ever made! Elena has a history of work in communications and project management. Some of her favorite places in Glasgow include BlackPine Coffee, Hanoi Bike Shop, and Kelvingrove Art Gallery. She is always happy to chat about her experiences and looks forward to introducing you to Glasgow and the beautiful Scotland!

Elena White

Resident Director

Elena moved with her family from the US to Glasgow when she was a child. Having grown up in Glasgow, she studied in Santa Barbara, California and graduated with a BA in Theatre Arts. Elena has always loved to travel and counts her own university experience in California as an extended study abroad. She considers this one of the best decisions she's ever made! Elena has a history of work in communications and project management. Some of her favorite places in Glasgow include BlackPine Coffee, Hanoi Bike Shop, and Kelvingrove Art Gallery. She is always happy to chat about her experiences and looks forward to introducing you to Glasgow and the beautiful Scotland!

Manuel Urí Martín

Resident Director

Born and raised in Madrid, Manuel Urí Martín studied at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, where he received his doctorate in Spanish Philology. He has taught as a professor at the Université Stendhal in Grenoble, France; at Carleton University in Canada and also at the Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo in Santander, the Canary Islands and Seville. Manuel started working at ISA in 2008 and has been the ISA Resident Director in both Madrid and Barcelona during this time. His extensive work experience, passionate personality and sincere desire that each one of his students enjoy studying abroad, undoubtedly make him a great member of the ISA team. Manuel and the rest of the ISA Barcelona staff are dedicated to making your experience in Spain an excellent one.

Cristina Canales Contador

Senior Cultural Activities Coordinator

Cristina was born in Barcelona and graduated from the University of Barcelona with a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Management. Cristina has been working in ISA for more than 9 years, she is very passionate about her work as she enjoys helping students have the richest experience possible. In addition, Cristina speaks Catalan, Spanish, English, and some  French. In her free time, Cristina is passionate about Barcelona, its culture and nature, loves to spend time with her friends, traveling and trying food from all around the world! One of her best experiences was to travel to India with his grandfather and doing volunteering service with Fundación Vicente Ferrer, an NGO that works in Anantapur, the poorest area of the country. Traveling abroad has change her life and the way to see the different cultures.

Daniel Ostad

Senior Housing Coordinator

Daniel grew up in Washington, DC and graduated from the College of Charleston in South Carolina with a degree in Anthropology.  He has gained a passion for international education, travel, and cultural understanding through his own adventures throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa.  As a college student, Daniel studied abroad with ISA in Granada, Spain.  Later in 2001, he joined the ISA Granada team then in 2008 he became the Resident Director in ISA Meknes, Morocco until 2017. Since then Daniel has been coordinating housing in Barcelona.  On his free time he enjoys biking, snorkeling, skating, hiking and yoga, however surfing is his obsession.  When there are no waves you can usually find Daniel relaxing in one of Barcelona’s many outdoor cafes.

Janelle Forster

Senior Student Care Coordinator

Although originally from southern Idaho, Janelle has spent most of her life living outside of the United States. Her first move abroad was at the age of seven, when her family moved to England and the Netherlands for a year-long sabbatical. Later on, she supplemented her studies with two study abroad programs: the first in Calgary, Canada, to study architecture and then with ISA in Barcelona. Before moving back to Barcelona in 2007, she graduated from the University of Idaho with a B.S. in Architecture and a B.A. in Spanish. She found her calling as an ISA director in 2010, and since then has enjoyed managing the Student Care Department. In her free time, she enjoys travelling, dancing, cooking and riding horses, and is always open to new experiences!

Danielle Roberge

Student Care Services

Danielle was born in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and has lived in various parts of the United States, France and now Spain. She first studied abroad in Paris, France when she was just 15 years old and there she developed a taste for learning new languages and exploring different cultures. Over the years she has participated in many study abroad programs in various countries around the world and has earned a B.A. in International Studies from Maryville College and a M.A. in International Education from SIT Graduate Institute. In 2015, she took a leap of faith and moved to Spain, where she plans to settle down. In her free time she enjoys listening to live music, hiking, camping, sailing, paddle surfing, and BBQ-ing on her balcony.

Andreina Sigüeñas

Student Services

Andreina was born in Caracas, Venezuela, but has lived in Barcelona since she was 9 years old. She graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Tourism and earned her Master's in Hotel Management and Hospitality at the University of Lleida. Andreina has always worked in the tourism sector which has allowed her to broaden her vision and find her true vocation. She is passionate about knowing other cultures, interacting with many people, trying new gastronomy, listening to new music. She speaks Spanish, Catalan, English and a bit of French. Andreina loves living in Barcelona and having the opportunity to show the city to others. In her free time, she likes to practice sports, travel, dance, go to new restaurants in the city and, above all, learn new things

Emili León

Student Services

Born and raised in Barcelona, Emili has a degree in sound engineering, music, and audiovisuals production. His love for music has always led him to new opportunities and exciting experiences, some of which have included living in the United States and England. His time abroad really opened his eyes to the importance of culture and education. Upon returning to Barcelona Emili decided to become a teacher. It was through teaching that he discovered the joy of working with young adults. He thinks that helping people and especially young people is time well spent. In his free time, Emili enjoys spending time in nature with his dog Finn.

Cristian Pérez

Housing Coordinator

Born and raised in Barcelona, Cristian has a Bachelor's degree in Political and Administration Sciences from Universitat Pompeu Fabra. During his studies, he spent five months in Poland as an Erasmus student and had the chance to learn a bit of the language, traveling around the country and enjoying the magical city of Krakow, where he lived. This remarkable experience abroad helped him realize how much he likes speaking other languages and led him to work at different tourist attractions in Barcelona. Now at ISA, he enjoys helping students make the most of their stay at his hometown. Cristian loves to discover new spots in town, hanging out with friends, traveling, music, history and animals.

Walter Uribe

Academic Coordinator

Walter spent most of his life living in Mataró, a town on the coast north of Barcelona, but came back to the city shortly after university. After completing his Humanities degree at the Pompeu Fabra University, he also achieved a postgraduate degree in Music Business at the same university. He loves music and production and whenever the occasion arises, he enjoys getting on the microphone and singing some R&B. While working at the famous Liceu theatre in Barcelona, he discovered a profound appreciation for opera and a new interest in sharing his culture with people from other countries through music. Walter takes pride in helping students while they are far from home and hopes to help them discover the beauty of Barcelona. 

Genoveva Garcia Gallardo

Resident Director

Born in Burgos in Northern Spain, Genoveva first studied abroad in Ireland while completing her Bachelors in Humanities at Burgos University.  She furthered her studies at Western Michigan University where she graduated with a double Master in Spanish Language and Literatures. This time abroad was invaluable for Genoveva as she learned about U.S. students and campus culture, helping her better understand the needs of ISA students abroad. She began working for ISA in Barcelona in 2004 and in 2008 became the Bilbao Resident Director. Genoveva is the proud mother of two small children and valued member of her church choir and orchestra. She loves working with ISA students and appreciates the opportunity to learn and grow with them on their path to global citizenship. 

Marisa Revelles

Resident Director

Marisa was born and raised in Granada, and returned home to join ISA after many years of international experiences. She lived and worked in Colorado for ten years where she taught Spanish at the University of Denver. Later, she worked as a foreign language teacher in Belgium (University of Louvain La Neuve) for seven years. She holds a bachelor's degree in English/Spanish language and literature, a master degree in anthropology, a Master in Second Language Acquisition and a doctorate in Pedagogy and Didactics (University of Granada). She has also lived and worked in England and Norway. Outside of work, she loves scuba diving, skiing, and spending time outdoors.

Ángel Garzón Pena

Housing Coordinator

Originally from Jaén, Spain, Ángel moved to Granada to study Translation (Spanish, French, English and Portuguese). During his studies he spent his summers working and studying French in Antibes, France. There, he found his passion for educational tourism and worked as a European tour director for American high school students for seven years. He also worked as a researcher for some educational programs within the European community. Ángel joined ISA in 2015, where he worked first with the Granada programs and then as the ISA Meknès Resident Director in Morocco. Ángel is excited to be back with the ISA Granada team, where he can put to use all his knowledge and experience. He has lived 4 countries (Spain, France, Portugal and Morocco) and his hobbies include traveling, meeting new people, and playing sports.

Reyes Ruiz Laura

Associate Vice President of Italy, Ireland, United Kingdom and South Africa Operations

Born and raised in Granada, Laura started her international adventure during her college years as an exchange student, first in the UK and then in Italy.  Later she would hone her international skills with a summer internship in Chicago and another Erasmus year  abroad, this time in Siena. Laura joined ISA in 1997 and served as Granada Resident Director for over 10 years before taking on the role of Associate Vice President. She now oversees site operations in South Africa, Ireland, the UK and Italy. She leads many of our site visits and is one of our most seasoned professionals, having just reached her 20 year milestone as a team member. Laura has worked in many countries and loves travelling on her free time as well. She speaks fluent Spanish, English, Italian and French.

Lorena Herrera

Academic Coordinator

Neftalí González

Resident Director

Although originally from Burgos, in Northern Spain, Neftalí has spent most of his life living around Spain and South America. He studied Social Education and Hispanic Studies at the University of Granada, after which he completed a master's degree in Cultural Management and Latin American Studies. He also worked as an educator addressing the needs of disadvantaged adolescents.

Neftalí enjoyed his experience in the Andes, working for five years as a literature professor and Academic Coordinator of ISA in Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu, and traveling throughout Latin America. After that, he returned to Spain to take over the position of ISA Barcelona Senior Academic Coordinator. In this role, he had the opportunity to interact with students and provide his support across a wide range of issues. Nef is a literature and photography enthusiast who enjoys exploring the wonders of nature and riding his motorcycle across the country.

Carlos Marín Muñoz

Assistant Resident Director & Housing Coordinator

A native of Granada, Carlos moved to Madrid in 2002. He studied Business Computer Science in high school and Labor Relations at the University of Granada. He worked at a bilingual (English-Spanish) primary school in Granada. Carlos is also a professional actor and a voice actor. He has participated in various short films, theatrical performances, musicals, and commercials for TV. He loves to travel, meet people, and learn about different cultures. Carlos is a dynamic and extroverted person who is accustomed to working in a team environment. He has been working for ISA since 2004, and is a wonderful addition to the ISA Madrid team.

Anna Beltrame

Cultural Activities Coordinator

Anna was born in Italy and has loved foreign languages and cultures since she was a toddler. This led her to focus her studies on translation, interpreting, and literature, specializing in Spanish and English. Anna previously worked as an English and Spanish language teacher for many years, with students of all ages and backgrounds. She loves music, dance, sports, and nature. Anna is fond of traveling and meeting new people.

Sara Garrido

Academic Coordinator

Born and raised in Valencia, Sara attended the University of Valencia. There she obtained her Bachelor´s degree in Art History. Before working with ISA, Sara volunteered in children's education and as an environmental advocate. Sara joined ISA in 2004 in the ISA Valencia office. She worked there until 2012 when she moved to Madrid to work in the ISA Madrid office. Within ISA, Sara has worked in housing, cultural activities, and is currently in the academics department. In addition, she does guided visits for the students. One of her passions is to travel and discover the monuments and history she studied in college. She has traveled to several countries including Egypt, Italy, and Ireland, as well as throughout Spain. She loves her job, travel, music, nature, and animals-- especially dogs.

Iker Villamarin Renteria

Resident Director

Iker was born and raised in Barcelona. After the 1992 Olympic Games, he moved to Marbella, a beautiful town located in the Costa del Sol. Then he moved to Malaga, where he studied Business and Economics at UMA. In 2008, he started working at ISA in Malaga and in 2018 he moved to work at ISA in Seville. Iker has traveled all around Spain and Europe. He loves music, going to concerts and festivals, but he especially loves to collect classic rock records. He also loves the beach, and spending time with friends and family. At work he’s passionate about helping students feel at home. One of Iker’s favorite sayings is: "if you love your job, you won’t work a day in your life!”

Eugenio Aguilar

IT Director - Europe

Originally from Granada, Spain, Eugenio attended the University of Granada, where he studied career counseling and educational psychology. He also holds an advanced degree in occupational health and safety, and has completed his Master's degree in computer science. In his spare time, he likes exploring nature, traveling and learning about other countries, and discovering different charming places to taste local wine in whichever city he finds himself. Eugenio finds study abroad to be one of the best ways to contribute to personal growth and loves being a part of a team that offer this to students.

Carmen Abanades Cruz

Resident Director

Originally from Cuenca, Spain, Carmen attended the University of Salamanca. There she obtained degrees in Art History and Pedagogy. Before ISA, Carmen got involved with study abroad arranging cultural activities and guiding tours for international students. Carmen joined ISA Salamanca in 2001 and worked there for almost six years before becoming the Santander and Bilbao Resident Director until 2009. She then returned to ISA Salamanca to lead the office there. Her great knowledge of Spanish history and culture makes her an important part of the ISA program in Salamanca. Carmen's cheerfulness helps to create an easy-going environment with ISA students. She is dedicated to making ISA students' experiences in Salamanca rewarding. Carmen enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.

Beatriz de Miguel Martin

Student Services & Service-Learning Coordinator

Beatriz was born and raised in Salamanca, where she studied Psychology. After finishing her degree, she worked for two years in Mérida (Extremadura) with people with intellectual disabilities, developing projects focused on facilitating their entrance into the workforce. In 2011, she returned to Salamanca and joined the ISA Salamanca team. What she likes most about her job is the direct contact with students, getting to know them and helping them as much as possible so that they fall in love with her hometown, Salamanca! Bea loves to read, travel, and spend time with her family and friends. 

Juan Eguiluz Pacheco

ISA Academic Director

Juan finished his studies at University of Salamanca's school of Philology in 1985, and worked as a professor of Spanish as a Foreign Language at Cursos Internacionales at USAL. During his time at the university, he traveled the world to places such as Belgium, Iceland, Brazil, Romania, Denmark, and France to give lectures and work with foreign universities to improve classroom instruction of Spanish. He has also published many articles in academic journals and books dealing with Spanish as a foreign language. Having taught students from around the world as a professor at the University of Salamanca, he brings great enthusiasm and knowledge to ISA. Juan's love for the Spanish language, teaching, and other cultures can truly be seen in his relationship with the students.

Roberto de la Calzada Cuesta

Assistant Academic Director & Student Services

Roberto de la Calzada Cuesta is originally from Salamanca. He has a technical degree in Finance Administration and another in Business Studies from the University of Salamanca. He spent six months in Wales where he studied English and worked with international students. He also spent that time traveling around the UK, where he fell in love with its history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. He loves that his job allows him to learn about different cultures and be surrounded by great coworkers. Roberto's hobbies include travelling, watching movies, and getting together with his friends and family. 

Rodrigo de Francisco Benito

Assistant Resident Director & Housing Coordinator

Manuel Gutierrez

Resident Director

Manuel "Manu" Gutiérrez Olavarría began working with ISA in 2001 as a Resident Dirctor in several ISA sites: Sevilla, Santander,  Barcelona, and is now in Valencia. Manu enjoys being surrounded by different cultures and believes this aspect of the job is the most rewarding. 

María Vilar

Student Services Coordinator

Tamara Vázquez Rodao

Student Services Coordinator

Tamara was born and raised in Valencia, Spain. She feels the most alive while traveling and is always looking for new opportunities to learn something new or discover a new place. She enjoys the constant movement of life and wishes for it to never stop. Her latest adventure was to South Korea, where she spent a month traveling solo, focusing on learning more about the culture and the language. For the last few years, she has been focused on learning Korean and mastering aerial silks, but she has many more interests including music, photography, and cooking delicious vegetarian dishes. Curious by nature, she has ventured into many different fields to learn and grow. She received a bachelor's degree in theater, while at the same time completing her bachelor's in advertising and public relations. Her latest venture brings her to ISA where she feels she can continue learning and growing.

María Jesús Rubio Amador

Senior CP & Cultural Activities Coordinator

María Jesús Rubio Amador was born and raised in the city she loves most, Sevilla. She earned a degree in Business Management of Tourism and a graduate degree in Hotel Management from the University of Sevilla. María then moved to Dublin, Ireland to follow her passion for learning about different cultures and a desire to improve her English. She loves meeting new people from all over the world. María Jesús joined ISA in 2007 and offers her enthusiasm and cheerful personality to ISA students in Sevilla.

Carmen María López

Student Services

Although she's a native Sevillian, Carmen has lived in multiple cities in Spain and the UK! She's studied abroad in both the United States and London and eventually earned a degree in Pedagogy and a Masters in Educational Psychology. In her free time, Carmen enjoys backpacking, swimming, playing with a local volleyball team, and reading. Carmen practices Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, advocates for gender equality, and enjoys volunteering in her local community and internationally.

Carmen Maria Parra

Director of Logistics

Carmen María Parra Barragán is a native of Sevilla. She earned a degree in English Philology from the University of Sevilla and worked as an English teacher for many years. Carmen's interest in foreign literature and film has led her to study other cultures and have a passion for traveling. She loves meeting new people and working with students. Carmen joined ISA in 2007 and brings her energy and out-going personality to ISA Sevilla.

Enrique López

Director of Spanish Operations/ ISA Resident Director

As a child in Salamanca, Spain, Enrique, known as Quique by his friends and family, dreamed of becoming a soccer star, but sensibly studied Humanities at the University of Salamanca. He went on to work for the University guiding tours and excursions for study abroad students. His natural people skills and love of passing on his knowledge of Spanish history and culture turned this job into a career, leading him to move to Seville beginning his work with ISA in 2001. After several years, he became Resident Director yet still continues to feel passionate about his work and the new challenges he faces, while still enjoying a bit of soccer through his children.

Francisco León Gutiérrez

IT Systems Administrator

Originally from Seville, Spain, Fran is an all-rounder in technology, and has IT studies in Systems Administration. Fran enjoys his work and is always willing to help people. From a very early age, he felt that he had a knack for new technology, which led him to later create a large online community devoted to smartphones and tablets (Htcspain). He was fortunate to join the IT department at ISA in 2013 and is grateful for the amazing colleagues on the team, whom he knows can always rely on to help provide the best support and attention to students and other ISA employees. His hobbies include going to the gym, the beach, riding his bike, reading technical books, and spending time with his family and friends

Manolo Fernández Moreno

Senior Housing Coordinator

Born and raised in Seville, Manolo graduated from the University of Seville with a Bachelor´s in Labor Relations and 3 Master´s in Labor Health and Safety. He began working for ISA Sevilla during the summer of 2002. He likes travel and meet new people from other cultures. He has visited the US, Canada, Morocco, and several other countries in Europe. He finds study abroad to be one of the best ways to contribute to personal growth and loves being a part of that for his students. His love and passion for Spain, and especially Sevilla, allows him to enthusiastically teach students about its culture, traditions, and history. In his spare time, he likes playing sports and spending time with his family/friends. 

Pedro José Pérez Polo

Director of Central Europe Operations

Pedro José Pérez, a Salamanca native, graduated from the University of Salamanca, where he majored in Spanish. He then moved to London to teach Spanish to clients in the Economic Sector. After working in several countries, Pedro returned to Salamanca and continued studying to obtain his MA in Spanish Instruction for foreigners. He taught Spanish at Cursos Internacionales of the University of Salamanca and then moved to Sevilla. He began working for ISA as a teacher and assistant in the summer of 2002 but has been the Academic Director at the Study Center in Sevilla since 2013. He looks forward to receiving each group of students in every term with enthusiasm and interest.

Sara Pérez

Spain Custom Programs Manager/ Academic Coordinator

Born in Zafra, she moved with her family to Sevilla when she was 10 years old, so therefore considers herself a sevillana. Her passion to learn languages and cultures led her to seek a degree in Travel & Tourism from the University of Sevilla. She also did several summer study abroad programs in different places in the UK to improve her English language skills. After graduating, she moved to Cologne in Germany where she spent almost 2 years. Upon returning to Spain she worked as an event planner in a few different hotels, joining ISA in 2011. Sara loves the beach, cooking and discovering new restaurants or tapas bars in her city, and loves to share good recommendations with students anytime!

Tamara Roldán Gutiérrez

Senior Academic Coordinator

Tamara Roldán is a native-born Sevillana, and raised in Alcalá de Guadaira. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Language and a Master’s degree in Hotel Management from the Universidad de Sevilla. She worked as a summer camp counselor as well as a Spanish teacher in the U.S. for a couple summers, both of which proved to be rewarding experiences for her. After graduation, Tamara was working as an English teacher in Language Academies and high schools in Sevilla. She enjoys learning about other cultures, good coffee, and she loves traveling, spending time with friends/ family and practicing Pilates. She has been with ISA since 2004 and is always excited to share her passion for Sevilla and the Spanish culture with ISA students.

Marina Lopez Duarte

Resident Director

Marina was born in and raised in Andalucia in Southern Spain where she attended the Universidad de Sevilla. With a passion for both travel and architecture, Marina studied abroad in Poland where she traveled extensively through the region. Because of this rewarding experience she decided to teach Spanish as a foreign language, allowing her to keep in touch with different cultures and languages. Marina joined the ISA Barcelona team in 2013 and became the Amsterdam Resident Director in 2017. Marina loves working on-site and helping students make the most of their time abroad. Marina enjoys cooking, travelling the world, coloring mandalas, volunteering, giving Reiki, and finding inspiration in life's challenges.

Gabriela Gamper

Resident Director

Gabriela was born and raised in Buenos Aires, a very multicultural and diverse city. Her interest in other cultures led her to obtain a degree in Tourism Management. Since 2008, she has worked in both the tourism and international education industries, hosting international students. She strongly believes studying abroad can help students gain cultural awareness, get a better understanding of the world and learn a foreign language while having the time of their lives and, ultimately she enjoys being part of that life changing experience! Gabriela is a passionate traveler, having visited many countries in North, Central, and South America, as well as Europe and is always planning where her next travel destination will be. She loves history, music, urban architecture and enjoys sharing Argentina & Latin American culture with international students and world travelers.

Lorna Arredondo

Student Services

Lorna is a true local, born and raised in Quilpué, Chile, a suburb of Valparaíso. She studied Hotel and Restaurant Management at the Universidad de Valparaíso. Lorna got her first taste of international education while participating in a multicultural exchange with the organization "Youth With a Mission" in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She joined the ISA Chile team in 2006 and has found tremendous gratification working with international students. Lorna enjoys sharing the Chilean culture and language with others, as well as learning from others regarding their own culture and personal experiences. Lorna's hobbies include music, especially singing, and watching movies.

Lizette Arredondo Castillo

Director of ISA Chile Programs

Katherine Rua

Resident Director

Born and raised in Barranquilla, Katherine graduated from the Universidad del Norte with a degree in international relations. She was an exchange student at Concordia University in Montreal, Canada. She represented her home university at the Organization of American States in Washington D.C. Additionally, she earned a scholarship for a dual degree in international cooperation from Colombia and Pavia University in Italy. Last, she volunteered in Egypt during the winter of 2013. She speaks native Spanish, fluent English and basic French. Prior to joining ISA, Katherine worked for two years with Universidad del Norte to strengthen services for international students. She is very passionate about traveling throughout the country and abroad as well as promoting Colombia as a safe, friendly, and exciting destination for foreign students.

Carolina Martinez Arcila

Resident Director, Medeillin

Carolina Martinez Arcila was born in Medellín, Colombia, where she studied business administration. She has worked as a language interpreter and tour guide and discovered her passion for sharing her home city with others. Carolina loves welcoming students to the city of the eternal spring, where she helps them adjust to life in Colombia and pursue their dreams while abroad.

Sylvia Chaverri

Director Heredia Programs

Sylvia studied Tourism with an emphasis in Group Management at Alajuela University. In 1999 she began working for the National Biodiversity Institute in its INBioparque project (a wildlife park focused on biodiversity and bio-literacy) as a bilingual guide which gave her the opportunity to lead many visitors from around the world. Sylviaheld various roles at INBioparque and has experience serving people with diverse physical abilities, emergency protocols, quality standards, environmental interpretation and group management. She is certified in first aid, CPR and incident command through the Fire Department and USAID. She is fluent in English and her hobbies include gardening, reading, photography, arts and crafts, decoration, and learning about cultures and spending time in nature.Sylviaenjoys meeting and interacting with people of different nationalities and loves to share her culture and traditions.

Christian Vargas

Director of Latin America Operations

Adriana Caravaca

Resident Director, Costa Rica

Adriana studied Bilingual Preschool Education at the Universidad Central. She has worked as a coordinator of camps and recreational activities with youth groups from Costa Rica, the United States and Canada. This experience helped her share ties of friendship, communal work, and cultural exchange. Adriana is an active person who loves to meet new people from different cultures. She also enjoys teaching Spanish and English and has been involved as a tutor of children, youth and adults for 10 years. Thanks to her experience working with students and languages, she is very excited to be able to share and help students to adapt and learn from Costa Rican language and culture.

Sylvia Chaverri

Director Heredia Programs

Sylvia studied Tourism with an emphasis in Group Management at Alajuela University. In 1999 she began working for the National Biodiversity Institute in its INBioparque project (a wildlife park focused on biodiversity and bio-literacy) as a bilingual guide which gave her the opportunity to lead many visitors from around the world. Sylviaheld various roles at INBioparque and has experience serving people with diverse physical abilities, emergency protocols, quality standards, environmental interpretation and group management. She is certified in first aid, CPR and incident command through the Fire Department and USAID. She is fluent in English and her hobbies include gardening, reading, photography, arts and crafts, decoration, and learning about cultures and spending time in nature.Sylviaenjoys meeting and interacting with people of different nationalities and loves to share her culture and traditions.

Christian Vargas

Director of Latin America Operations

Eliesset Sepúlveda

Resident Director

Eliesset studied business administration at the Universidad Tecnológica de Santiago. She received a master's of business administration from the Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra, where she also worked in the registrar's office and coordinated recreational group activities. She has supported ISA students for more than 14 years as resident director. Eliesset likes sharing her culture with students to help them adapt and learn to life in the Dominican Republic. Her hobbies include exercising, watching TV shows, reading and spending time with family and friends.

Andy Osorio Mollenedo

Resident Director

Born in Arequipa and raised in Cusco, Andy studied business administration at the Universidad Inca Garcilaso de la Vega in Lima. Since 2009, he has been part of the ISA Peru team. Andy is passionate about helping ISA students have a wonderful experience abroad. In his free time, he likes to play basketball, soccer, watch TV, and go to the movies.

Roxana Paredes

Student Services Coordinator

Roxana grew up in Cusco, Peru and graduated from Universidad San Antonio Abad del Cusco with a bachelor's degree in Tourism and a master's degree in Public Administration. She furthered her studies with a Master's degree in Spain focused on Human Rights. In 2008, she had the opportunity to work abroad in the United States through an exchange program in Steamboat Springs, Colorado and joined the ISA Cusco team in 2011. She coordinates a variety of student services, including the ISA service learning programs. She loves to share the Peruvian culture with all ISA participants and support them as they adjust to life in Cusco. Roxana spends her free time preparing baked goods, such as cakes and pies for friends and family, and loves to hike the mountains in her beautiful hometown.

Kris Cárdenas

Academic Coordinator

Born and raised in Cusco, Kris attended San Antonio Abad del Cusco University, where she obtained her Bachelor´s degree in Education. She then went to Spain to earn her Master degree at Cantabria University. She worked in several universities in Peru and China - teaching Spanish and Latin-American Literature. She also worked with ISA Cusco as a teacher from 2014. She has traveled to several countries including Thailand, Cuba, and Italy, as well throughout Peru. She loves teaching, travel, reading, music, dancing, and sports, and is an avid dog lover.

Michelle McRaney

Resident Director

Michelle graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a focus on International Management. She studied International Business in Caen, France and Spanish and International Management in Monterrey, Mexico. Michelle joined the ISA team in 1998. Michelle has led programs in Guanajuato, Mexico; Salamanca, Spain; Granada, Spain; Santander, Spain; Sydney, Australia; and Santiago, Dominican Republic. She also accompanied several ISA site visits in Chile and Argentina, and conducted new program research and staff training in Mexico and Brazil. In 2006, Michelle moved to Lima, Peru, where she set-up ISA's first program in Peru, which expanded to include Cusco. Michelle is excited about sharing the Peruvian culture and cuisine with all ISA participants and helping to adjust to life in Lima.

Cecilia Aramburu

Student Services Coordinator

Cecilia received a Master's Degree in Tourism and Cultural Heritage from the UAB (Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona) in 2017. She has studied abroad and lived in cities such as Cusco, Peru and Cartagena, Colombia. She absolutely loves traveling and learning about new culture, as well as sharing her love of her own city and Peruvian culture with ISA students. In her free time, she enjoys doing hot yoga, pilates, and traveling whenever she can!

Ann Eldridge

Resident Director

Originally from Boston, Ann has worked in International Education for over 20 years, starting with a year studying abroad in Australia in the 90s! Upon graduating from the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, Ann returned to live in Australia and became the Manager of Study Abroad and Exchange at the University of Queensland. Upon leaving the University to start a family, Ann began working with TEAN as their Queensland Resident Director, where she looked after Study Abroad students in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, as well as being responsible for the Internship Program across Australia. Ann has worked in the student accommodation and arrivals services for the last 10 years, which has honed her expertise in assisting students transitioning to living/studying in Australia. She loves this aspect as she gets to re-live her study abroad experience through the eyes of our students. She is excited to be back after all these years.

Joanna Diradji

Internship Program Manager

Originally from Walla Walla, Washington, Joanna began traveling as soon as she graduated high school - working abroad in Italy, Egypt, and South Korea, and studying abroad in Scotland. She then spent over a decade in New York City working within cultural exchange, international education, and global mobility; followed by a career as an immigration attorney. Having now settled in Melbourne, Australia, Joanna believes life is an adventure - and we should treat it like one. She thoroughly enjoys being able to help students do just that everyday.

Akisi Rokovucago

Resident Director

Born and raised in Suva, Akisi studied Tourism and Management & Public Administration at the University of the South Pacific and went onto join the tourism industry which she has been actively involved in, over the past years. She first joined ISA in 2014 before she left in 2015 and later rejoined in 2017, excited to be involved in study abroad programs with ISA. Her passion for travel and the outdoors are two of the contributing factors that have helped her in assisting students to better understand Fiji’s culture and their overall experiences in the country.

Meghan Lawrence

Manager, Global Mobility

Meghan's international education began in high school when she took part in an exchange to Switzerland for Italian language immersion for 2 months.  At university, she went on exchange to the USA, studying at the University of North Carolina – Greensboro (UNCG).  Whilst studying at UNCG, Meghan interned in the International Programs Centre which is where her love for International Education began.  After landing her first role at Griffith University, Australia as an Inbound Mobility Advisor, she transitioned into the Outbound Mobility Advising position and has spent the last 4 years happily inspiring students to enhance their university degrees and participate in global experiences all over the world!

Ann Eldridge

Resident Director

Originally from Boston, Ann has worked in International Education for over 20 years, starting with a year studying abroad in Australia in the 90s! Upon graduating from the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, Ann returned to live in Australia and became the Manager of Study Abroad and Exchange at the University of Queensland. Upon leaving the University to start a family, Ann began working with TEAN as their Queensland Resident Director, where she looked after Study Abroad students in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, as well as being responsible for the Internship Program across Australia. Ann has worked in the student accommodation and arrivals services for the last 10 years, which has honed her expertise in assisting students transitioning to living/studying in Australia. She loves this aspect as she gets to re-live her study abroad experience through the eyes of our students. She is excited to be back after all these years.

Cole McLean

Senior Resident Director

Originally from Canada, Cole is a graduate of the Bachelor of Communications program at Griffith University's Gold Coast campus. Cole, just like many others across North America, decided to take his education international and start one of the greatest adventures of his life. Cole has been involved in communities around the globe through work within the Not-For-Profit sector, and in his personal time he enjoys travel throughout South East Asia, meeting people from different walks of life, learning about local cultures, and reading any work by Hunter S. Thompson, finding his work to be mind- strengthening through its creativity and realism. Taking on new challenges is something Cole greatly enjoys and is one of the reasons why he thrives being on the ISA team.

Ange Hart

Resident Director

Ange's love of people and traveling has taken her to parts of Southeast Asia, North, Central and South America, the U.K., Europe, some South Pacific islands, and around much of the huge, gorgeous continent of Australia. A native Melbournian, she feels lucky to call this vibrant, eclectic city her home and get to show her off to her study abroad friends. When she's not showing people around Melbourne, she is busy dancing, hosting events, being silly on stage or taking adults through deep, emotional processes to re-find their power. She believes that life is full of magic if we just breathe it in, and she chooses to do just that!

Joanna Diradji

Internship Program Manager

Originally from Walla Walla, Washington, Joanna began traveling as soon as she graduated high school - working abroad in Italy, Egypt, and South Korea, and studying abroad in Scotland. She then spent over a decade in New York City working within cultural exchange, international education, and global mobility; followed by a career as an immigration attorney. Having now settled in Melbourne, Australia, Joanna believes life is an adventure - and we should treat it like one. She thoroughly enjoys being able to help students do just that everyday.

Andrea Ciotti

Resident Director - Newcastle

Originally from Tampa, Florida Andrea attended the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, where she graduated with a degree in Business with a focus on Marketing and Sports Management. After working for a number of NFL teams, Andrea headed back to uni to work with UCF in their on campus housing department as a marketing coordinator. Always up for an adventure, Andrea has lived in Boone, North Carolina, Orlando, Florida, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania before falling in love with an Aussie and moving to Newcastle, where she has resided for over five years. Andrea has owned and operated a small boutique for over two years in Newcastle, and is excited to showcase the beauty of Newcastle and the unique experiences you can’t find anywhere else! 

Joanna Diradji

Internship Program Manager

Originally from Walla Walla, Washington, Joanna began traveling as soon as she graduated high school - working abroad in Italy, Egypt, and South Korea, and studying abroad in Scotland. She then spent over a decade in New York City working within cultural exchange, international education, and global mobility; followed by a career as an immigration attorney. Having now settled in Melbourne, Australia, Joanna believes life is an adventure - and we should treat it like one. She thoroughly enjoys being able to help students do just that everyday.

Laura Carroll

Resident Director

Born and raised in Southern California, Laura went to California State University Long Beach where she studied nutrition and public health. Before beginning a career in international education, Laura worked in hospitality and volunteered in health care clinics. She has always enjoyed working with people from all different backgrounds, which is why she loves now working with international students while based in Sydney! A travel lover, she finds experiencing other cultures a great privilege and appreciates seeing the beautiful differences of each place she visits. You can also find her regularly reading a good book, cooking, hiking, swimming and doing yoga. Moving to Sydney has been a wonderful learning experience for Laura, a fact that helps her further connect to students as she’s able to relate with all the highs, lows and countless discoveries that come with living and studying abroad.

Dharma Bendersky

Director of Operations

Born in Sydney, Dharma studied Environmental Sciences at the University of Wollongong where he lived with many study abroad students and formed life-long friendships. This led to a career in international education, where he has worked for over 18 years at Australian universities, study abroad companies and leading tours around Australia and the Asia Pacific. A dual Australian/American citizen, he has lived and traveled extensively throughout the US, as well as Europe, and is a keen surf and landscape photographer. Dharma has a passion for adventure and new experiences, and enjoys working for ISA to help others have life-changing intercultural experiences that encourage personal and professional growth.

Abigail Cousins

Resident Director

Abigail was born in the UK and has lived in Australia since she was seven years old. She moved to Townsville in 2016 to study, and is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Social Work at James Cook University. Abigail is very passionate about helping others and also has experience settling and supporting newly arriving residents in Townsville. Abigail loves to travel and explore new places, as well as to show others the amazing experiences and scenery which North Queensland has to offer.

Akisi Rokovucago

Resident Director

Born and raised in Suva, Akisi studied Tourism and Management & Public Administration at the University of the South Pacific and went onto join the tourism industry which she has been actively involved in, over the past years. She first joined ISA in 2014 before she left in 2015 and later rejoined in 2017, excited to be involved in study abroad programs with ISA. Her passion for travel and the outdoors are two of the contributing factors that have helped her in assisting students to better understand Fiji’s culture and their overall experiences in the country.

Kelly Pihema-Berridge

Director of Operations, New Zealand & Fiji

Kelly Pihema Berridge was born and raised in Auckland and is of Maori and European descent. Kelly has a passion for international education and foreign languages which was sparked by her experience living overseas as an exchange student in Brazil, Chile and Italy. Kelly has enjoyed working for ISA Auckland since 2015 as the Resident Director and loves meeting new students and sharing her Maori and kiwi culture with them. 

Kelly has travelled throughout Europe, the Americas, Asia, the Pacific region and Australia. She has also explored the North and South Islands of New Zealand and looks forward to being a part of providing an exciting and culturally enriching experience for ISA students in Auckland. 

Cynthia Jung

Assistant Resident Director and Internships Manager

Raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Cynthia attended the University of Auckland where she pursued a double major degree in Accounting and Commercial Law. Throughout her years as a student, she has had several amazing opportunities to travel and study abroad in Spain, North / South America and Asia. Cynthia’s current role in ISA NZ involves working closely with kiwi organisations, ISA interns who come to NZ for an internship opportunity of a lifetime. Cynthia has been lucky enough to work with the Australian and Ireland internship departments during her time at ISA, allowing her gain insight and knowledge to refine and enhance the internship experience all across the ISA board

Jennifer Monaco

Internship Coordinator and Student Advisor

Jennifer is originally from New York. After graduating University she had her eyes set on finding a career that would allow her to pursue a passion of supporting people. Jen then decided to see the world and soon made her way to New Zealand with an exchange program to be an Au Pair. After 10 months, her life changed.  Since then Jen has traveled Europe, the Caribbean and the USA, exploring different cultures and gaining new experiences. Jen loves the outdoors, hiking, biking, going to the beach and being adventurous by trying new things! Jen cannot wait to share her passion for travel and her love for New Zealand with the ISA students coming to Auckland. 

Allison Ferris

Resident Director

Originally from Canada, Allison graduated from the University of New Brunswick in 2010. Deciding that one degree wasn't enough, she completed her Bachelor of Honours in Elementary Education with a concentration in Inclusion and Special Needs. After graduation, Allison moved to a city outside Seoul, South Korea where she taught at English language academies for three years. In 2014, she moved to New Zealand as an international student, studying towards an MEd in Inclusive and Special Education, and after six months, began working with international students through the campus halls of residence. Allison joined ISA in 2017, because of ISA's commitment to providing a quality experience for students.  She loves showing students the hidden gems of Christchurch, New Zealand, as well as helping them integrate with New Zealand's unique culture and way of life. 

Deanne Solomon

Assistant Resident Director

Dee is Assistant Resident Director in Dunedin, New Zealand. She is originally from Dunedin and studied a BA in Social Work and a Dip Grad in Education at the University of Otago. Her love of travel and working with international students started while working as a Camp Counsellor in Ohio during the summer of 2000. After that she worked in South Korea teaching English for 2 years and then spent 7 years working at a school in the UK having responsibility for international students.Dee’s experience of living and working abroad has giving her a passion for international education.  She has been very lucky to have travelled to many countries around the world but now loves showing off Dunedin and the beautiful Otago region to the ISA students.  

Fred LeBlanc

Resident Director

Originally from the US, Fred worked for Rutgers College Office of Student Support as both a Resident Advisor and a Hall Advisor after finishing his BSc in Primatology and Hungarian. He currently looks after study abroad students and the coordination of ISA’s service-learning in New Zealand.  Since moving to New Zealand, Fred has worked at Massey University, Victoria University in Wellington, and the University of Otago in various roles and enjoys working with students, especially those that have also chosen New Zealand as their new, though short term, home.