Mission Statement
The Office of International Student Services (ISS) has the responsibility for meeting University federal compliance with regard to international students. ISS strives to support international student success through the following endeavors:
- Advising students on immigration regulations that affect their status in the U.S.
- Providing programs that help promote cross-cultural adjustment
- Serving as a resource to the campus and international student communities
- Advocating for international students and international education
Karen Michael Mikel
Director
F-1, J-1 Advisor
About Karen
Aloha! My name is Karen Michael Mikel and I am excited about being your international student advisor. I am a proud alumni as I have received both my undergraduate (2003) and graduate (2007) degrees in Asian Studies here. I come from Malaysia but I have been living in Hawaii since 2000. I loved my college years and now I love working with international students. I hope to assist you achieve your academic and professional goals. Outside of the office I enjoy eating out and yoga. I also love to travel domestically and internationally. Attending college is a great opportunity to grow, explore and make connections, make the most of it!
Viet Ngo
F-1, J-1 Advisor
About Viet
In my spare time, I lead a laid-back lifestyle (i.e., cheap) and try to live out my childhood dreams through my two boys.
Ray Allen, PhD
F-1 Advisor
About Ray
I went to Nigeria, West Africa, as a Peace Corps Volunteer in 1966, and stayed after to work as a principal in a trades school there. In my lifetime, I have also worked as a Sunday school teacher and a firefighter and National Park Ranger for Yosemite National Park. Now I am at ISS and hope that I can help international students while they are here. My advice to students: Don't take a pill; have a laugh.
Lisa S. Houghtailing,
Immigration Specialist
About Lisa
Aloha! My name is Lisa Houghtailing and I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. A proud alumni of UH Manoa, I have a Master’s degree in Second Language Studies (SLS). A former ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher, I love working with international students and helping them to achieve their personal, academic, and professional goals. In my spare time, I love to read, karaoke, explore the latest restaurants, and travel. E komo mai!
Kendyll Dοi,
IT Specialist
About Kendyll
I keep this webpage operational and other things that involve technology. I am a person of few words or a lot of words, never in between.