Eve Dauer Wong, managing director of Cleveland State Global at Cleveland State University, has 30 years’ experience supporting international students in transitioning to life in the US. She is passionate about helping students adapt to different cultures and build their leadership skills. Her role ensures every international student is nurtured and supported at Cleveland State Global.
Eve’s Journey to Cleveland State Global
Originally from Cleveland, Dauer Wong began her adventure in higher education at the age of 18, when she was a student herself. She went to college in Toledo, Ohio, and worked for the University of Toledo for more than 12 years while pursuing her various degrees. She has also lived and worked in Maryland, Minnesota, and Virginia over the years, including a stint at a school that had a 98% international population.
“Coming back to Cleveland has been a great pleasure,” she said. “Between my higher ed administration experience, my operational experience, and being given the opportunity to work with international students again, [Cleveland State Global] very much appealed to me.”
Support for International Students with Cleveland State Global
Dauer Wong recognizes and commends international students’ drive, enthusiasm, and desire to study abroad. To enable a smooth higher education experience, Cleveland State Global offers support for international students including financial aid, English-language classes, and more.
“We want to make sure that we are putting them with peer mentors, tutors, [and] they are going to help them in the areas in which they struggle,” Dauer Wong said. “We also want to make sure that they are successful culturally.”
Often being international students themselves, Cleveland State Global student mentors are encouraged to share their personal stories. They can empathize with students and help address the challenges that come with moving to a new country and adapting to a US university environment.
In 30 years, the [Cleveland State Global] student workers are the best I have seen. They are very knowledgeable and by being able to share [their stories and expertise] with our students, it just enhances the student experience.” — Eve Dauer Wong, managing director, Cleveland State Global
Dauer Wong also highlights the importance of attending orientation and classes, and is working on a campaign to ensure international students have all the resources and guidance they need to attend class with confidence. Additionally, she’s interested in connecting international students with local students, administrators, and the overall Cleveland State community.
Student Life at Cleveland State
Cleveland State University is ranked #105 of Top Performers on Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report. Immersive academic opportunities include workshops, seminars, clubs, and organizations, such as Operation STEM, that give students the chance to participate in competitions like the Freshman–Sophomore Mathematics Competition and Leo Schneider Student Team Competition.
Students can also engage in exciting cultural and recreational activities, like visiting the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, attending professional sports games of the Cleveland Browns (American football) and Cavaliers (basketball), and trying new restaurants in the Gordon Square Arts District. The Cleveland National Air Show, Ohio City Street Festival, Tremont Arts and Cultural Festival, and other events give students a unique insight into the food, history, and culture of the city.
Dauer Wong highlights another memorable feature that may be new to international students in Cleveland — snow!
“It’s always fun when there is snow for the first time,” she said. “To see the international students run out and take pictures of each other, making snowballs or snowmen, or just enjoying [winter] for the first time, it’s fun to see it through their eyes.”
Eve’s Advice for International Students
Dauer Wong encourages international students to make the most of their education in the US.
“To come to the United States gives you a great opportunity to grow yourself, develop, increase your understanding, just gain really valuable experience,” she said. “When you get here, try to keep your mind open to the fact that it is a different culture. Things might be a little different than what you are accustomed to at home. So, when an administrator reaches out or somebody is trying to give you some advice into how we work here, try to keep your mind open to that.”
Dauer Wong encourages international students to explore their potential at Cleveland State. “We want to make sure that you are happy, that you are thriving, and that you are growing. So, know that we are going to continue to improve so you can get your education and then hopefully continue to work here in the United States for a little while and then launch your career.”
Discover Cleveland State Global >
