Connect with an International Programs Advisor

If you have questions for your advisor we ask you to please: 

  • email your questions directly to your assigned advisor
  • use your WCC student email, for all college communications and
  • include your full name and ctcLink ID in your email

Advisors are able to meet in person by appointment.

Forgot who your advisor is?   Contact Beth Robinson brobinson@whatcom.edu, Ulli Schraml uschraml@whatcom.edu, or Ellen Harris eharris@whatcom.edu and they will put you in touch with your assigned advisor.

Immigration advising

It is the responsibility of students to understand how to maintain their visa status. U.S. immigration rules and regulations are very complicated and can change at any time.Your advisors are here to help you understand the rules and regulations.

  • Students must be full time (12 academic credits or 18 hours of language study).
  • Students must notify the International Programs office when they change their contact information (email, phone number, address).
  • Students are not allowed to work off-campus.

  • Students should have their I-20 signed every six months, and a signed I-20 will be required for re-entry to the United States.   Current guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic allows advisors to sign I-20’s electronically.   Contact your advisor for an electronic signature three weeks BEFORE re-entry to the United States.

 

Academic planning

In the U.S., it is the responsibility of students to plan their long-term academic goals. Advisors are here to answer questions and assist with class registration.

  • Students must attend their registration appointments.
  • Students must come prepared to their registration appointments by creating a class schedule and taking the math placement test before their scheduled appointment.
  • Students must attend applicable academic workshops.

 

University transfer

Whatcom's Associate in Arts and Science degrees are designed for students who plan to transfer to a university. After completing the two-year Associate in Arts and Science degree at Whatcom, students are able to transfer to a university to complete the final two years of a bachelor's degree. It is the student's responsibility to research  and prepare their university transfer applications Advisors are here to help answer any questions. Please see the University Transfer page for additional information.

 

Personal advising

Living and studying in a new country and culture creates many challenges, both academic and personal. Your advisors are here to help with the personal challenges that arise during your studies at WCC.

 

Visiting Canada

For information about getting a Canadian visa, click here.