International Student Services

Division of Student Life

Contact Us

Drop-In Office Hours - ISS staff are available for weekly drop-in advising (no appointment needed) during the academic year:

  • March 18-April 5: Due to staff vacation time, drop-in hours will be adjusted during these dates. See the schedule here.
  • Mondays w/ Fiona (10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)
  • Tuesdays w/ Gwen (10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) 
  • Wednesdays w/ Gwen (12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.) 
  • Thursdays w/ Fiona (10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)

Additionally, ISS staff are available to students for in-person, phone and virtual appointments on days the College is open. Students can find appointment times/modes via the staff booking links below. 

Email International Student Services 
Call or Text International Student Services at 503-517-5538

ISS Staff

Gwen Sandford

Director for International Student Services
503-517-5538 | Gray Campus Center 104 | Book an Appointment

Photo of Gwen Sandford

Advising areas: travel signatures, I-20, DS-2019, and SEVIS updates, work authorizations (OPT, EXEL with CPT, Exchange Visitor work), leaves from the College, Reduced Course Load requests (medical or academic reasons), Progress Plan meetings, US cultural adjustment support and navigating College processes.

"Hello and welcome! My name is Gwen Sandford (she/her) and I serve as the primary staff contact for international students within the college's Student Life division.

In my role I oversee the different programs in the office; work on immigration-related matters; liaise with other campus departments, faculty, and staff on issues relating to international students; and supervise office staff. If you are a prospective student and decide to attend Reed, we will get to know each other very well.

I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, and attended college in Southern California. Study, work, and living experiences have taken me to Central America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Live music and spicy foods are some of my favorite treasures to seek in Portland. I look forward to connecting with you! If you have any questions about the ISS office or international students at Reed, please don't hesitate to contact me."

Fiona Ahn

International Student Advisor 
503-517-5538 | Gray Campus Center 104 | Book an Appointment

Fiona-Ahn.jpeg

Advising areas: travel signatures, event planning, InterConnect Mentor Program, International Friendship Program, International Student Club, and US cultural adjustment support and navigating College processes.

"Hello everyone! Welcome! My name is Fiona Ahn (she/her), I was born and grew up in Beijing, China. I'm an international student myself. I obtained my Master’s degree in Finance while studying abroad in the US.

I have been working as a study abroad advisor since 2014, specializing in providing counseling services to Chinese students. In my current role as the International Student Advisor at Reed College, I support programmes such as the InterConnect Mentor Program, International Student Advisory Board and International Student Orientation. I'm more than happy to help if you have any questions!

I spend my free time loving Teaism and it was Taoism in disguise. I'm also a big fan of LAKERS!"

Chriselda Nguyen

International Student Services Intern

"Hi everyone, I’m Chriselda Nguyen, a sophomore Biology major Chinese minor from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I love travelling and exploring new places!!! But the best part of all is the food (I have a huge passion for food :D) Furthermore, I like singing too! As an ISS intern, I will be helping set up international events on campus. I look forward to getting to know everyone and hope that I can help you to enjoy your time at Reed!" 

*This is me and Mango Waffle! :D

Minal Edwards

International Student Services Intern

minal"Hello! My name is Minal (she/her), a freshman psychology major. Home to me is both India and Dubai, so I'm a long way from home but so excited to be here in Portland! In my leisure, I enjoy painting, going on picnics, and thrifting around Portland. I'm always on the lookout for new cafes and food trucks to try out. As an ISS intern, I look forward to getting to know you and helping make your transition into a vibrant and happy Reedie, a comfortable and fun journey!"  

Omar Youssif

International Student Services Intern

minal"Hi! My name is Omar, a sophomore Computer Science major from Cairo, Egypt. Portland is an amazing city to be in college for, and I love exploring it through walking around, biking, and more! I also enjoy listening to music and spending time with friends during my free time. I’m excited to help everyone and be able to make everyone’s Reed experience a fun and memorable one."