The Lifelong Learning Journey of Oleksandra Sehin: Oleksandra Sehin, Ph.D., Assistant Director of Education Abroad

Education is a continuous process that expands the mind, enhances abilities, and helps navigate the ever-changing world. It is not limited to a specific stage of life but remains an ongoing process of learning and teaching that fosters both personal and professional growth. Oleksandra Sehin’s educational journey has been greatly influenced by her highly educated parents, who instilled in her the belief that higher education opens doors to boundless opportunities. Through perseverance, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to academic excellence, she has built a distinguished career in international education, research, and leadership.

Early Academic Path and Teaching Experience

From an early age, she had a passion for education. She found joy in helping peers with their studies, sharing learning techniques, and providing academic guidance. This passion led her to enroll in the English Department at Lviv State University in Ukraine, where she earned a Specialist Diploma, equivalent to a Master's degree. After graduation, she moved to Poland, where she worked as an English teacher at a vocational agro-technical school, teaching English to regular students and Russian to adult learners. This experience allowed her to witness firsthand the unique challenges adult learners face in the education system, sparking a deeper interest in exploring innovative teaching methods and student-centered learning approaches.

Adapting to Higher Education in the United States

In 2003, she embarked on a new chapter as an international student in the United States. Adjusting to an entirely different educational and cultural environment was a significant challenge. The American higher education system differs substantially from the Ukrainian and Polish systems, particularly in its emphasis on student choice. Unlike the rigid curricula she was accustomed to, the U.S. system provides students with the flexibility to select courses, declare majors, and shape their own academic paths. While this flexibility is advantageous, it can also lead to confusion and uncertainty.

Her academic transition was made possible through the support of the International Student Office and her peers, who helped her navigate the complexities of the American higher education system. This experience enabled her to gain a deeper understanding of the difficulties international students face and the importance of proper academic advising. Over time, she developed a keen interest in student support services, which later became a key aspect of her professional work.

Professional Growth Through Research and Leadership

Studying at John Jay College in New York allowed her to earn a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree. During this time, she actively engaged in volunteer work with the CUNY/NYC Citizenship Corps, assisting individuals in the naturalization process. Inspired by her experiences and driven by a desire to address the adaptation challenges faced by adult students, she decided to pursue a Ph.D. in Education. After thorough research, she selected Texas State University due to its recognition as one of America’s Best Value Colleges and its doctoral program in Adult, Professional, and Community Education.

At Texas State University, she actively participated in international research projects, focusing on international and multicultural education, graduate student mobility, and cross-cultural experiences. Her dissertation, "Evaluating Internationalization Efforts in Select Award-Winning Institutions of Higher Education: Where Are the International Graduate Students?" provided valuable recommendations for international education strategies. Additionally, she has published seven peer-reviewed papers and has presented research at international conferences. In 2013, her academic work was recognized with an award from the American Educational Research Association. Her research continues to influence the field of international education and serves as a foundation for institutions seeking to improve their global engagement strategies.

Advocacy and Leadership in International Education

Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to improving the educational experience for international students. For her, leadership is not an inherent trait but a behavior that drives positive change. Her leadership approach is based on moral leadership and reflective practice, aimed at developing policies that support international students.

Working in the Office of International Affairs at Texas State University, she has played a key role in strategic planning for Education Abroad programs, establishing partnerships, and developing assessments of global learning. She has also organized cross-cultural panels and educational events that have helped students gain a deeper understanding of cultural diversity. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, she has mentored countless students, guiding them through the complexities of international education and encouraging them to engage in study abroad opportunities.

Her contributions have extended beyond the university, as she has collaborated with international education organizations, published extensively in academic journals, and served as a peer reviewer for various scholarly publications. Recognizing her expertise in the field, she was awarded a U.S. green card through the National Interest Waiver in 2023, further solidifying her impact on the field of international education.

Conclusion: Advice for Future Educators and Researchers

For those beginning their journey in Adult, Professional, and Community Education, she offers the following advice:

1. Set clear goals in your academic and professional career. Define what you hope to achieve and outline the steps necessary to reach your objectives.
2. Build professional networks through mentorship, conferences, and research projects. Networking is essential for career advancement and for staying informed about developments in the field.
3. Stay active in professional organizations, keep up with new research, and participate in peer reviewing academic publications. Continuous engagement with academic literature and professional communities enhances expertise and credibility.
4. Seek out interdisciplinary opportunities that allow for collaboration across different academic and professional domains. The integration of various perspectives enriches research and fosters innovative solutions to educational challenges.
5. Embrace lifelong learning as a core principle. The field of education is constantly evolving, and staying adaptable ensures continued growth and relevance in a changing global landscape.

Her educational journey is a testament to the fact that learning is a lifelong process, opening new opportunities for growth and positive contributions to society. Through her dedication to research, leadership, and advocacy, Oleksandra Sehin continues to make a lasting impact on the field of international education, shaping the experiences of students and educators alike.