International education is facing an identity crisis—and a funding cliff. Emily Merson says it’s time to tell a better story, one that finally gets the world (and policymakers) to listen.

What happens when the value of international education is clear to everyone—except the people who control the funding and the policies? In this episode of Via Voices, global leader and entrepreneur Emily Merson calls out the existential threats facing our field and makes the case for a new kind of advocacy—one that’s bold, collaborative, and impossible to ignore.

Emily shares how scarcity mindsets and outdated messaging are holding us back, why career readiness is the story we need to tell, and how universities and partners can unite to protect access and opportunity for all students. She’s seen firsthand how innovation, mentorship, and a willingness to rethink the narrative can move the needle—even when the policy climate is tough.

• Why funding and policy uncertainty are the biggest barriers to student access

• How a “better story” can shift the conversation with stakeholders and policymakers

• The role of industry partnerships in making study abroad affordable and relevant

• Why career readiness is the message that resonates beyond our bubble

• How global ed leaders can ditch the scarcity mindset and drive real chang

Emily Merson is a results-driven global leader with a passion for innovation and impact. She’s led major global initiatives, built high-performing teams, and driven transformational change for US and international universities. Most recently, as CEO at AIFS Abroad, Emily steered her team through rapid industry change, championing access, academic excellence, and business-for-good. Her expertise spans executive leadership, cross-cultural collaboration, and building organizations where people and purpose come first.

[00:00] Podcast begins

[01:00] The Reluctant Entrepreneur: Global background & career inspiration

[02:44] Career Readiness vs Funding Challenges: International ed challenges on all levels

[05:20] Telling a Better International Ed Story: Surviving existential threats with a new voice

[10:58] Professional Mentorship: Leveraging skills to coach professional growth

[13:27] Rapid Fire Questions: Emily talks mindfulness, access, awareness, & entrepreneurship

AIFS Abroad | aifsabroad.com, 2016 Global Internship Conference Debate in Boston

Book: Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How It Changes Everything
By: James R. Doty MD

Connect with Emily:

• LinkedIn

For More Information:
Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources.

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