Member Spotlight: Kellie Mahoney

Kellie Mahoney, DSO, Vanderbilt University

This is the latest in a series of interviews with members of NAFSA: Association of International Educators to share insights, knowledge, and expertise about career opportunities and growth. Today we hear from Kellie Mahoney.

1. What made you choose international education as a career path and your specialty specifically?

From 2013 to 2021, I worked as a teacher with AmeriCorps and Metro Nashville Public Schools and completed three years of service with the Peace Corps in Colombia. Following my service, I felt a strong passion to continue supporting students but sought to expand my impact beyond the classroom. International education presented an ideal path, allowing me to engage with students and scholars from around the globe. I find fulfillment in being a resource for individuals embarking on new experiences or navigating significant transitions. In my current role, I provide holistic advising, assisting with everything from relocating to Nashville to managing nonimmigrant visa statuses and balancing new experiences.

2. Which of NAFSA’s member interest groups, regions, or knowledge communities do you belong to?

I currently serve as a leader for the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCV) Member Interest Group (MIG).

3. What did you enjoy most about the NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo in New Orleans this year?

I enjoyed the networking events. The conference brought together diverse groups and communities from around the world. I valued the opportunity to meet fellow RPCVs at our MIG meeting and to connect with new individuals at the expo. As a foodie, I loved trying New Orleans dishes!

4. Which of NAFSA’s workshops have you found most valuable?

After being a NAFSA member for two years as an F-1 student adviser, I found the J-1 Advising for Beginners workshop to be helpful. It introduced me to a new visa category, and I appreciated the opportunity to connect with colleagues who shared diverse experiences and knowledge. The resources I learned from the session will be helpful as I deepen my understanding of the J visa category.

5. What advice would you share with job seekers or rising international educators?

In the field of international education, diversity and varied perspectives are invaluable. My advice to job seekers and emerging professionals is to embrace this diversity and not hesitate to ask questions. The field’s complexity offers numerous opportunities for growth and learning. Actively networking within your institution can help you discover resources and opportunities. For instance, during my first semester at Vanderbilt University, I participated in a mentor program, which allowed me to work one on one with a mentor on my professional goals.

Kellie has been working as a DSO at Vanderbilt University for two years. She is a Tennessee native and received her degree in special education from Austin Peay State University. She has worked with youth ranging in age from pre-k to high school in various educational capacities across Tennessee and internationally as a teacher and site director for after-school programs. She is an AmeriCorps State and National Alumni and a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer from Colombia, where she lived and served for three years along the coast. In her free time, Kellie enjoys a good cup of coffee, rock climbing, and is currently training for her first marathon.