Meet your teachers and staff
Joe Conrad
Center Director
Qualifications: MA Political Science, University of New Hampshire; MSc Violence, Conflict and Development, School of Oriental and African Studies (University of London)
Languages: English, French
"I have previously worked as an English instructor at Embassy language school in New York. Over the last few years, I studied at graduate school, and worked in the social science field in both Iraq and in New Hampshire. In New Hampshire I was a Case Manager for an organization that resettles refugees from Africa, South Asia and the Middle East. I joined the ISC in 2009 as an English teacher, and this year I am pleased to take on the responsibilities of Center Director.
Studying at Fisher College in Boston, you will find particular enjoyment being on the border of two worlds; a few minutes walk in any direction can get you to your classes, faculty members, different libraries, boutiques or restaurants of all types. The College's location is within the peaceful 'Emerald Necklace' series of parks, overlooking the Charles River.
I greatly enjoy watching students develop their English skills in the classroom and grow as world travelers, applying their refined talents in both their coursework and managing life in one of the most dynamic academic, business- and shopping-oriented metropolitan hubs in the US. I look forward to having you in our classes soon."
Jason Powers
Center Administrator
Qualifications: BFA Theatre; MFA Acting; Active member of Actors Equity Association
"My role as Center Administrator is to support the academic work of the ISC, maintain up-to-date information, and encourage effective communication within the Center and with the College.
I am originally from Mt. Pleasant in Michigan, USA, and earned a BFA in Theatre at Central Michigan University. Before moving to Boston I was an actor in Chicago for a number of years where I was nominated for the Joseph Jefferson Award for Actor in a Leading Role. While earning my MFA in Acting at University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, I also taught younger actors in workshops, as a guest instructor and as a one-on-one acting coach. I continue to work as a professional actor in the Boston area.
I admire the supportive and positive environment the staff here at Fisher have created for their international students and feel very fortunate to have been given this opportunity to work with them. I will help you with many aspects of your life at the ISC, and do my best to ensure you are happy at Fisher College."
Chris Hall
English Instructor on Foundation Diploma
Qualifications: BA in Comparative Religious Studies; MA in Languages and Cultures of Asia
Languages: English, Hindi, Tibetan
"I have been teaching English for over 10 years, and this is my third year at Fisher College. I enjoy working with international students from around the world and helping them to develop their language skills and achieve their academic goals. I believe that living and studying in another country is one of the best experiences a person can have. I have been fortunate to live and travel Europe and Asia, and I have spent extended periods of time in India, Nepal, and Tibet. My own experience learning other languages and living in other cultures helps me to understand and assist students with the challenges and rewards of studying in the United States.
Boston is a wonderful place to live, and I hope you will explore and enjoy its many unique features. For example, I love nature, and there are a lot of parks and green spaces within easy walking distance of the Fisher campus. I also love music, and Boston is a great city to enjoy concerts of all kinds. I hope you will take time to experience the rich culture and history of this famous city!"
