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Division of Academic and Student Affairs 
University Advising and Exploratory Studies

International Student Support

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Academic Coordinator for International Student Support

Tony Shurer

Tony Shurer is NC State’s Academic Coordinator for International Student Support. Mr. Shurer is an academic advisor who works closely with both University Advising and Exploratory Studies and the Office of International Services (OIS) to support students as they develop and improve their plans for academic success at the university. See below for information on different ways to connect with Mr. Shurer.  

Graduate and undergraduate students can receive guidance on a variety of academic questions and concerns. This includes major exploration, questions about changing majors or academic programs, and general questions about academic policy. Students may also request assistance in developing strategies for academic success. This could include conversations about transitioning to a new academic culture, setting goals, managing time, improving note-taking and study skills, developing study plans, and more. Students may be referred to other community resources for additional support. 

Drop-in Hours: Global Engagement Hub

Talley Student Union, Main Level

  • Monday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Friday: 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

Advising By Appointment

If your schedule does not permit you to attend Drop-In Advising hours on Mondays or Fridays, please feel free to email your questions or concerns to Tony Shurer directly at ajshurer@ncsu.edu.

Individual appointments can be scheduled as needed, and requests for virtual appointments can be accommodated. 

Finding Success in a New Academic Culture

You may have come from a different educational system with its own policies, procedures, and expectations. Below, you will find a few recommendations for successfully navigating NC State’s educational system and academic culture.

Academic Support for International Students

Students from all over the world join the Wolfpack community each year. Attending a university far from home can be a time of tremendous growth, excitement, and personal transformation. At the same time, NC State recognizes how pursuing higher education in another country can present a variety of challenges. For international students in particular, this transition to a new community and a new academic culture can result in a very unique student experience. We look forward to working with you and supporting you as you navigate these experiences. We’re ready to answer any questions or concerns you have about academics and to help you enhance your plan for academic success at NC State.

Know the Rules

NC State University has its own policies and procedures about changing majors, dropping classes, academic integrity, and other academic areas. The US has laws and regulations about visas, immigration, and employment for international students. Be careful when making assumptions; ask for help or clarification when you have questions! 

Ask for Help

Successful students know that they can’t do it all by themselves – they ask for help. At NC State, we expect and encourage students to ask questions. If you don’t know who to ask, that’s ok! Start with your instructors and advisor(s). Graduate students can also connect with the Director of Graduate Programs (DGP) and the Graduate Services Coordinator in their department. In situations where you are unsure of where to begin, consider talking with the Academic Coordinator for International Student Support. 

Make Connections

Meet other students in your classes for study groups or just to get to know each other. Find student organizations that look interesting – there are hundreds at NC State! Introduce yourself to your instructors. Attend office-hours when you have questions about course content or if you want to learn more about their research. 

Think and Do

This is NC State’s motto. In your classes, participate in discussions, ask questions, and show intellectual curiosity. Go beyond just your coursework: get involved in the NC State and Raleigh community. Participate in research, even if you are an undergraduate. 

Resources for Faculty & Staff

Tools for a Diverse Classroom

Staff from the Office of Global Engagement and the Division of Academic and Student Affairs have created this online resource guide for faculty and staff working with international students at NC State. It addresses many common concerns, including: engagement in the classroom, language considerations, and academic integrity.