I want to share two beneficial experiences from my participation in the TABS (The Association of Boarding Schools) Foundations of Care and Practice program, an opportunity given to me through Darlington's professional development program. The program's modules on understanding common mental health challenges and supporting international students particularly resonated with me, as my own experience as an international employee has given me unique insight into the journey many of our international students face.
My international background has helped me recognize both the challenges and opportunities that come with studying abroad. While our international students may initially experience adjustment periods related to cultural differences and language adaptation, I've witnessed firsthand how Darlington's supportive environment helps them grow through this time. The TABS program, particularly through Dr. Amy Patel's insights on student well-being and Dr. Angela Yang's expertise on international student success, has equipped me with additional tools to support our students' growth and adaptation.
This year, I've been able to watch our international students' journey unfold. While some students naturally experienced an adjustment period during their first few weeks, it's been incredibly rewarding to see them find their place in our community. Their resilience and growth remind me of my own experience and inspire me to continue developing more effective support strategies. The TABS program has enhanced my ability to recognize early signs when students might need additional support, allowing us to provide timely and effective assistance.
Looking ahead, I'm excited to continue building on what I've learned through this professional development opportunity. My goal is to further enhance our boarding school experience by creating an even more inclusive environment that celebrates our students' diverse backgrounds while supporting their academic and personal growth. The strategies and insights gained from experienced educators through the TABS program have already begun to influence how I approach mentorship and cultural integration in my daily interactions with students.
This experience has reinforced my passion for supporting international students while providing me with practical tools to enhance student well-being. I'm grateful to be part of a school community that prioritizes both student support and faculty development, allowing us to continuously improve how we serve our diverse student body.
Professional growth and development are high priorities for Darlington. Each year, faculty and staff members participate in a professional growth cycle that includes professional learning communities, professional development days, and the ability to apply for professional development grants which fund conferences, travel, workshops, instructional supplies, outside speakers, and more. For the next few weeks, our blog series will highlight some of the opportunities that faculty and staff have participated in since they were awarded 2024-2025 Thatcher Grants last spring.
