Meet Amy Braye –  The heart Behind MSVU’s Global Connections

As Manager of the International Education Centre, Amy leads with purpose and passion, supporting students, faculty, and staff in creating meaningful international experiences and turning global ideas into action.

What Amy Can Help You With:

 For Students:

• Discovering study abroad and exchange opportunities
• Receiving pre-departure support before going abroad
• Getting assistance in international emergencies
• Getting involved in the WUSC Local Committee and Student Refugee Program

For Faculty and Staff:

• Questions about IEC staff, services, and strategic planning
• Developing and managing international partnerships
• Submitting expense claims for international collaboration
• Navigating student emergencies and critical cases
• Getting support for student advising and issue resolution
• Sharing new ideas for IEC initiatives
• Coordinating intercultural events and international programming
• Supporting WUSC and refugee-related initiatives

For Everyone:

• Proposing or supporting new international projects or programs
• Collaborating with MSVU or the IEC on initiatives related to international students or outbound mobility

Contact:

Email: amy.braye@msvu.ca
Phone: (902) 457 6130
Location: Seton Annex, Room 101B

Meet Andie Berggrav – Your First Friendly Face at the IEC!

Andie is our Front Desk Support and the first smiling face you’ll see when you visit the International Education Centre. She’s here to help make your experience smooth from the moment you walk through the door.

 What Andie Can Help You With:

• Answering general questions about the IEC
• Sharing info on events, exchange programs, and our social media/website
• Helping you connect with the right team member
• Guiding you to the support services you need
• Assisting with booking appointments with advisors or instructors

Contact:

Email: international@msvu.ca
Phone: (902) 457 5982
Location: Seton Annex, Room 101

Meet Kay Balite – Your Go-To for International Student Support and Immigration Guidance

As an International Student Advisor, Kay is your key contact for navigating the ins and outs of life as an international student at MSVU. From study permits to settling into life in Halifax, Kay is here to make your transition smooth, informed, and supported every step of the way.

 What Kay Can Help You With:

For Students:

• Guidance on Study Permit applications and renewals
• Help with Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and Co-op Work Permit applications
• Support with your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) process
• Info and support during International Student Days of MSVU Orientation
• Tips for adjusting to student life and academics in Canada
• Advice on working in Canada and understanding your rights
• Help with navigating life in Halifax and overcoming cultural challenges
• Support with international student taxes and common paperwork questions

For Faculty and Staff:

• Consultations on immigration updates that may affect students
• Collaboration on new programming ideas to better support international student success
• Whether you’re unsure about immigration paperwork, need help adjusting to life in Canada, or simply want to talk things through—Kay is here to support you with compassion and expertise.

Contact:

Email: kay.balite@msvu.ca
Phone: (902) 457 6488
Location: Seton Annex, Room 101A

Meet Sarah Jacques – Your Academic Coach and Cultural Connector at MSVU

As the International Student Success Advisor, Sarah is here to help you thrive both in and out of the classroom. From boosting your writing and presentation skills to helping you feel at home in Canadian academic culture, Sarah is your go-to for academic success and community connection.

What Sarah Can Help You With:

For Students:

One-on-one or group support with:

• Academic writing and structure
• Presentation and pronunciation skills
• Understanding assignments and planning/revising your work
• Navigating the transition to Canadian academic and social culture
• Getting involved in social events and intercultural programming
• Joining the Cultural Ambassador volunteer team
• Support during International Student Days of MSVU Orientation
• Participation in the WUSC Local Committee and Student Refugee Program

For Faculty and Staff:

• Addressing academic barriers faced by international students
• Collaborating on intercultural programs and classroom initiatives
• Running and supporting the Right Start Program for international academic transitions

For Everyone:

• Sharing resources on academic transitions and language support
• Organizing intercultural events and cultural celebrations across campus

Contact:

Email: sarah.jacques2@msvu.ca
Phone: (902) 457 5970
Location: Seton Annex, Room 105

Meet Mahx Mason – Your Exchange Program Guide and China Partnership Specialist

Mahx plays a key role in connecting MSVU with the world through exchange program coordination, international partnerships, and Mandarin-language support. Whether you’re preparing for a semester abroad, registering as an exchange student, or working on a global initiative, Mahx is here to support you—on campus and across continents.

What Mahx Can Help You With:

For Students:

• Getting ready for your advising appointments
• Managing incoming exchange program applications and course registration
• Supporting outgoing exchange students with applications and documentation
• Offering first-language support in Mandarin

For Faculty and Staff:

• Initiating a new international partnership or exchange program
• Resolving IEC website-related issues
• Coordinating Chinese partnerships and institutional relations
• Providing Chinese cultural awareness training
• Offering Mandarin-English translations
• Supporting delegation visits from China or other international partners
• Helping you prepare for your visit to China or a partner institution

For Everyone:

• Creating and sharing materials to promote existing partnerships
• Assisting with hosting international delegations at MSVU

Contact:

Email: mahx.mason4@msvu.ca
Phone: (902) 457 6199
Location: Seton Annex, Room 101C