Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS)
The OISSS is part of the Institute for International Liberal Education at Bard College and serves the needs of all international students and scholars in the Bard community. Our work extends to Bard's programs in New York City and reflects international integration efforts across campus.
Our Staff
Carmen Nicole Smith
Director of Visa and Immigration Services PDSO, RO Scholar Support [email protected]
Carmen Nicole Smith
Director of Visa and Immigration Services PDSO, RO Scholar Support [email protected]
Carmen provides visa and immigration support to international students and scholars from across the globe. She joined Bard in September of 2021 as the Berlin Programs Manager for Bard Abroad and later shifted to OSUN where she managed the Student Mobility program. Before moving to the Hudson Valley, Carmen had a successful career as professional contemporary dancer, choreographer, and arts educator. As a member of Battery Dance Company, she led movement residencies on five continents, often sponsored by the U.S. State Department, and was an Arts Envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Carmen has also taught dance and choreographed musicals at academic institutions in the area. She has an MA in International Affairs from The New School and a BA in Psychology and Movement Studies from SUNY Empire State.
Abigail Swartvagher
Assistant International Student Advisor DSO, ARO F-1 Student Advising [email protected]
Abigail Swartvagher
Assistant International Student Advisor DSO, ARO F-1 Student Advising [email protected]
Abigail supports displaced and refugee students with services unique to their status in the United States. She also provides general support to international students at Bard College.