Partner Feature: Carroll College
We are excited to highlight one of our host university partners, Carroll College, this month! In this feature, you’ll learn more about Shannon Ackeret, Carroll’s Director of Global Education, as well as some of the opportunities and programs available to international students at Carroll College, located in Helena, Montana.
How long have you been working at Carroll? What is your role?
Last spring, I celebrated my 20th year with Carroll College and currently serve as the Director of Global Education. I am responsible for managing the Study Abroad program and International Student Services.
What does your orientation for international students involve?
Non-degree international students attend orientation alongside our degree-seeking students each semester. Students are invited to participate in all information sessions, activities or special events that are happening on campus during orientation. UGRAD students also attend an international student orientation which is embedded in the main schedule to cover visa regulations and requirements, resources, and other important information specific to their program.
Can you briefly describe a handful of campus clubs, events, and/or programs that are designed with international students in mind?
Carroll College offers many club events throughout the year, but a couple of favorites our international students have joined or participated in are: CAMP (Carroll Adventure and Mountaineering Program) provides opportunities for outdoor adventure including Mountain Biking, Fly Fishing, Rock Climbing, Rafting, Skiing, Camping, Paddle Boarding and more! Various events happen throughout the year including: Campus Mass, Intramural sports, Running Club, Faith Formation Groups, Bowling Night, Comedian Night, Special Lectures, Swing Dances, Casino Night, Theater, E-Sports and so much more.
What is your favorite place on campus and why?
I love working out at the Hunthausen Activity Center because they have everything I need to get a great workout and it’s air-conditioned! My favorite place to sit and soak up the view is on the steps of St. Charles Hall where you can see for miles!
Please share a positive takeaway or memorable story from your work with Global UGRADs.
UGRAD students are a blessing to our campus as they do well in the classroom, go out of their way to immerse themselves in our community and inspire others to seek out similar experiences. To have students on our campus from places most have never been to, like Timor Leste or Malawi, is such a gift and we are grateful to be part of the UGRAD program.
