We are experienced in communicating with non-native English speakers, and we will do our best to understand you.
To make it as easy as possible for you, our Advisers speak a variety of languages, and understand several more:
Contact our student ambassadors, Tzu-Jung Liu and Xiao Song through our ISC Student Group on Facebook.

They are active users of the student group and will be happy to answer all your questions about campus, studying at James Madison University and life in Harrisonburg!
Guiding you to the right choice: our staff our experts in international student admission to universities in America.
Our international student Admissions Team will answer your questions about admission and help you apply for the International First Year program at James Madison University in the USA. Ask a question about study in America for international students, and they will contact you by email.
Linh Nguyen Student Enrollment Adviser
| Nationality: | Vietnamese |
| Languages: | Russian, English and Vietnamese |
| Qualifications: | Bachelor of arts in Russian & English), University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Ho Chi Minh City |
| Advises students from: | Vietnam |
| Location: | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
| Telephone: | +84 8 38 277 666 |
"Hello, my name is Hong Linh and I'm from Viet Nam. I speak both Russian and English, and of course Vietnamese!
I have several years' working experience with different leading education groups and I greatly enjoy counseling and supporting Vietnamese students and their parents. As decisions about education are very important I strive to help students and their parents find the very best options according to their needs and requirements.
I am very happy to be a bridge for Vietnamese students to achieving their dreams of an overseas education! Welcome to James Madison University and I look forward to hearing from you soon!"
Judy ZhangStudent Enrollment Advisor
| Nationality: | Chinese |
| Languages: | Mandarin and English |
| Qualifications: | Master's degree from University of Portsmouth, UK |
| Advises students from: | China |
| Location: | Beijing, China |
| Telephone: | +86 10 85911295 |
“My name is Judy and I’m based in Study Group’s Beijing office. I have been with Study Group since 2008 and work as USA & Canada Program Admissions Assistant. In 2003, I went to the UK and got a master’s degree from University of Portsmouth. Studying and living abroad give me an opportunity to experience cross-cultural exchanges, learning about other cultures while representing my own.
Now my responsibility is to help students to process their applications and make sure every single application is completed before they are couriered to the USA or Canada. I also work with Chinese students online. I find working with those students a really great chance to open your mind to other cultures, as well as sharing your own with others.
I will be happy to help you with any questions. Welcome to contact me!”
Joyce Risse-RodriguezAdmissions Manager
| Nationality: | American |
| Languages: | English, Spanish, Italian, Korean, German |
| Qualifications: | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Marketing, from Montana State University |
| Advises students: | worldwide |
| Location: | Virginia, USA |
| Telephone: | +1 540 568 4981 |
"I worked many years in the field of corporate and international business marketing in Montana, New York City, and Pforzheim, Germany. I spent three years as a TEFL instructor teaching business English and conversational English to children and adult learners in Suwon and Seoul, South Korea. During this time I also served as the interim English editor for The Korean Herald, the bilingual newspaper in Seoul.
I am a native of New York, yet grew up spending most of my youth in Montana, Texas and Florida. I have traveled extensively throughout Western Europe and Asia. I enjoyed tremendously studying the cultures, customs, economics, religions and languages of these many wonderful countries.
Prior to joining Study Group, I was most recently employed as an on-line English Language Peer with the Korean, German, Italian, and Central and South American Spanish language communities.
I look forward to facilitating smooth placements for international students at James Madison University. My wish is that all students may enjoy rich, rewarding and successful international educational experiences."
Top tip for enjoying life at JMU
"Take total advantage of the many student cultural groups and extracurricular activities offered on campus. Groups such as the Korean Student Association and Chinese Student Association give you the opportunity to experience additional support from your fellow "home-land" students in dealing with issues such as culture shock. In addition, they provide opportunities to share your home culture with the entire University population at special events and activities.
There are numerous extra-curricular activities available at James Madison University which provide international students with the opportunity to fully enjoy experiencing American culture. The Shenandoah Valley is rich with a wealth of outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and river rafting. Being just a couple of hours from Washington, DC and the state capital of Richmond, there are also additional opportunities to visit numerous historical sights and museums. Overall, embrace your studies, forge new friendships and explore fully the bounty of educational opportunities surrounding you."
Kristen Egan International Marketing Manager
| Nationality: | American |
| Languages: | English |
| Qualifications: | BA Media Arts and Design; MEd College Student Personnel Administration, James Madison University |
| Advises students: | who are already in the USA or Canada, studying at another university or an English Language school |
| Location: | Virginia, USA |
| Telephone: | +1 540 568 4303 |
"Prior to joining the International Study Center, I worked as Assistant Director of Admissions for James Madison University. I helped domestic and international students navigate the college search and application process. I am passionate about Higher Education and excited to be helping international students achieve academic success.
Outside of work I enjoy traveling, creative projects and teaching ESL at a local non-profit agency.
Study Group has a high commitment to excellent customer service and student success. I always look forward to assisting you with your questions about studying in America."