Q&A with Ryerson’s executive director, international student enrolment, education & inclusion
Isaac Garcia-Sitton who joined Ryerson in September was recently named one of RBC’s Top 25 Canadian Immigrants.
A respected leader in the higher education sector, with over 17 years of experience in international relations and business development, Isaac Garcia-Sitton joined Ryerson in September, navigating a global pandemic while working to develop a pan-university strategic approach to international recruitment.
In this interview, Garcia-Sitton speaks about his tenure as a diplomat, how he pivoted to post-secondary education, and a few of his favorite things.
From your background, I can see that you served as a diplomat for Panama in Canada. What was that like?
After completing university and grad studies in the U.S., I served as a diplomat in the Consulates of Panama in New Orleans and in Montreal in 2007. This was when I moved to Canada. Working for the diplomatic corps was an amazing experience that afforded me the opportunity to wear multiple hats and develop many skills -- supporting Panamanians in my jurisdiction and learning about many different sectors to promote trade.
Why the switch to education and specifically, to Ryerson?
Transitioning to the labour market as a Permanent Resident was challenging at the beginning. I applied to hundreds of jobs and I would get shortlisted but wouldn't land the position because I lacked “Canadian experience.” The first offer I received after a year of applying and interviewing was at McGill University starting my career in PSE. After four years there, I moved to York University, where I spent five years as director of international education, and director of the York University English Language Institute. I joined Ryerson this September and, as an immigrant, I hope to continue providing opportunities for newcomers who immensely contribute to our richly-diverse society.
Taking up this inaugural portfolio affords you the opportunity to set out a clear vision. Could you define that vision and your top three strategic objectives?
The vision is to create a learning ecosystem that supports international students through their entire life cycle. So, it’s beyond just recruiting students, it's really about retaining and supporting them throughout with integrated and effective programming. International education helps us understand our own culture by meeting others and learning about different cultures, perspectives, notions. Learning is the outcome of cross-cultural encounters.
For the three objectives, the first would be developing, implementing and evaluating an integrated international recruitment strategy. Secondly, building on Ryerson’s Internationalization Strategy and other Strategic Plans, supporting the positioning of Ryerson as a premier urban international university. And lastly, enhancing the English upskilling programming at the Real Institute as we recognize that there are many international students in our priority markets that don't meet the language requirements.
What advice would you give International students joining Ryerson, especially in the midst of this pandemic?
The international student journey is already intimidating on its own, and, now, with the pandemic, it’s important to let them know that we're here, they're not alone, and that we're here to support them. I would reassure our students that their well-being is our top priority. For students in Canada, we have made many adjustments working with public health authorities following health and safety measures. For students potentially traveling back, our teams will support your journey every step of the way. I would also encourage them to check out the opportunities to connect virtually available at RU4U - virtual learning support, remote counselling sessions, mentoring, virtual hangouts. Lastly, it’s important that we care for each other, stay active, stay healthy, but most importantly, stay connected.
You were awarded recently as part of RBC’s Top 25 Canadian Immigrants. Tell us about this award and what it means to you.
I am deeply humbled and grateful for this recognition. The awards celebrate contributions of Canadian immigrants to our society – first from a shortlist of 75 and then to 25 winners. Being selected amongst a group of exceptionally accomplished individuals was really humbling and I am extremely honoured and grateful. I would like to highlight that I am just one of over eight million Canadian immigrants’ journeys. This is an excellent opportunity to shine a light on the daily contributions of Canadian immigrants to our country, but also to reflect and to consider how we can more successfully support the transitioning of our newcomers into society.
What are some of your favorite things to do in your spare time?
I like to travel because most of my family and friends live overseas. I’m a pretty active individual and exercise often, I also connect with the outdoors, when possible. I like giving back to the community, so I am involved with a few non-profit organizations both in Canada and overseas.
What technology or app can you not do without?
The first would be WhatsApp, it changed the way that we communicate. Then, I would say Waze – for driving, especially since it’s also great outside of Canada. Oh yes, Spotify for music. I really like their platform.