Skyline College celebrated International Education Week from November 17–21, 2025. The International Student Program (ISP), in conjunction with Study Abroad, kicked off the week by hosting the Opening Ceremony on November 17. Zoe Ann Mijares, an international student from the Philippines who served as the emcee, welcomed guests to the event and then invited Dr. Carol Hernandez, Vice President of Instruction, to give the welcoming speech. This was followed by a speech from Saroj Quinn, Executive Director of International Education.
After the heartfelt remarks, attendees were encouraged to enjoy the food provided while the Student Leadership Panel prepared for the next portion of the event. The second segment was led by Clair Yeo-Sugajski, Program Manager of the International Student Program. Panelists included Genevieve Caamal and Deniz Scarpace from Phi Theta Kappa, Knox Lwin from Phi Theta Kappa and Active Minds, and Jiaxuan Qiao from the Associated Students of Skyline College. They answered questions about their motivation to step into leadership roles, challenges they overcame, and advice they had for fellow students. All shared similar motivations and challenges – including leaping to step out of one’s comfort zone!
The third part of the event was led by Mr. Gerardo Brambila, Program Services Coordinator for Study Abroad. The panel featured two Study Abroad students: Jennifer Lau, who interned abroad in Barcelona, Spain, and Audrey Tom, who interned abroad in Dublin, Ireland. They shared their experiences, insights, and advice for students interested in joining the program. During this segment, the upcoming Study Abroad Program destinations for 2026 were also announced.
In the weeks leading up to the event, students were invited to nominate faculty or staff who had made a significant impact during their time at Skyline College. Although many names were nominated, the 2025 Faculty/Staff Appreciation Award was presented to Professor Jon Freedman, a math professor, who has been teaching at Skyline College for over 25 years. He delivered a thoughtful speech reflecting on his experiences teaching international students.
The International Student Program, in collaboration with SMCCCD Study Abroad, remains committed to providing meaningful opportunities and support for international students and the entire Skyline College community. To learn more about future ISP programs and events, please contact the ISP office at skyinternational@smccd.edu.
Article by Zoe Ann Mijares
Photos by Mei Lee and Zoe Ann Mijares
