Join the NASPA Global Division for a Global Hour that celebrates the career journeys of student affairs and services professionals from around the world. A moderated panel of professionals will share stories of their career paths, meaningful professional development experiences, and insights for new professionals and those navigating their own professional journeys.

As higher education becomes increasingly international, universities face growing responsibilities to support students' mental health, well-being, cultural adaptation, and sense of belonging. These challenges are particularly relevant in culturally diverse and internationally oriented higher education environments, where students navigate different educational systems, languages, cultural expectations, and social environments.

This panel explores how universities in Central Asia are responding to the evolving needs of international students and developing more inclusive, student-centered approaches to student affairs. Bringing together higher education professionals from Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, alongside an international graduate with extensive personal and professional experience in cross-cultural communication, international education, and professional development, the discussion will offer complementary institutional, regional, and individual perspectives.

The panelists will examine the challenges international students encounter when adapting to new academic and cultural environments, including social integration, navigating unfamiliar support systems, maintaining mental well-being, and developing meaningful connections within university communities. The discussion will also highlight institutional practices that promote intercultural engagement, strengthen students' sense of belonging, and create accessible and responsive support structures.

Particular attention will be given to the role of student affairs professionals in bridging cultural differences, recognizing diverse student needs, and fostering environments where students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed. Through shared experiences and institutional insights, the panel will also explore opportunities for innovation and cross-institutional collaboration in international student support.

By bringing Central Asian perspectives into the global student affairs conversation, this session aims to encourage reflection, knowledge exchange, and dialogue on how universities worldwide can strengthen their approaches to student mental health, inclusion, and belonging in an increasingly interconnected higher education landscape.

Learning Outcomes:

Participants will be able to:

- Identify key challenges affecting international students' well-being and sense of belonging.

- Recognize effective approaches to intercultural engagement and inclusive student support.

- Compare institutional practices and international student experiences across Central Asia.

- Identify strategies that can be adapted to strengthen student affairs practices in their own institutions.