Kristi Marchesani, Ph.D.

Director of International Recruitment and Admissions
University of Northern Iowa 

What inspired you to work in this field?
After graduating from university, I worked at an international high school in Europe. Many of the students from around the world came to me for help on their college applications and decisions. I realized that I enjoyed working with young people on their academic journey and assisting them to figure out their next steps. Working in international admissions at UNI was then a natural fit. 

What are the challenges you've faced?
Working in international education for the past 24 years has definitely had its share of challenges, however, nothing compares to the struggles we’ve experienced the last few years with COVID. It had a significant impact on our ability to effectively help young people with their plans to study abroad and meet their educational goals. 

What do you hope to achieve in the future?
I want to continue to rebuild the international population at UNI and help students to make the most of their educational experiences in order to find success after graduation. 

If you can give 1 or 2 pieces of advice to our prospective international students, what would it be?
Find your best fit! There are so many great universities in the U.S. and you will find success when you find the school that gives you the opportunities to engage and excel.