European Association for International Education
  • What is expected of a SAINT?
    A SAINT is expected to be interested in helping members of the EAIE with advice and support relating to their on-going work in international education.

 

  • To whom is SAINTs support directed?
    SAINTs support is directed to EAIE members only – particularly those members who are still growing in the profession.

 

  • How can I apply to be a SAINT?
    In order to become a SAINT, you should go to the Apply for SAINThood page, where you will find an application form.

 

  • How will I receive requests for help?
    Members are invited to send requests for assistance to the enquiries manager who then checks the database of SAINTs to see which of the SAINTs is best equipped to help. The enquiries manager then forwards the request to the relevant SAINT. For more information on the process, see the Getting support page.

 

  • How much time do I need to spend on SAINTs work?
    This depends on the number of enquiries you get and the nature of the enquiries. At the very least you will need to check your e-mails regularly (at least once a week), and you will need to respond quickly to enquiries so that we can keep up the level of satisfaction with the service.

 

  • Will I be free to give controversial advice?
    Yes! One of the strengths of a SAINT, particularly when fully-retired, is that they are no longer tied to the policies of an institution. SAINTs are encouraged to be adventurous and to "think outside the box" when giving advice.

 

  • Do I need to attend the EAIE conference?
    Not all SAINTs are in a position to attend the EAIE Annual Conference, but normally a few will be there. The Annual Meeting of the SAINTs will be held each year at the conference. SAINTs unable to attend will be kept informed about the results of the Annual Meeting and SAINTs activities through this web site, and by e-mail.

 

  • What role will SAINTs have at EAIE conferences?
    It is likely that those SAINTs attending the conference will take part in SAINTs-sponsored workshops and sessions. Proposals for these workshops and sessions are submitted at the end of October of the previous year. SAINTs who organise these proposals will invite other SAINTs to work with them.

 

  • What is the role of a mentor?
    Mentoring is a more personal and extended form of contact than simple advising. Not all SAINTs are mentors. Only SAINTs who have fully retired, and who agree to take on the mentor role, will be registered with the enquiries manager as mentors.

 

  • How are decisions about the SAINTs made?
    Decisions about the SAINTs are made at the Annual Meeting at the EAIE Annual Conference. Throughout the year, executive decisions are made by the Chair and Vice-chair, who may be advised by the Think Tank.

 

  • Will I need to spend a lot of time at my computer?
    Most requests for assistance can be dealt with quite quickly, although this will not always be the case. Mentoring will usually require more time at the computer, and mentoring relationships could be more long-term. You will be expected to check your e-mails regularly, so that we can respond to members quickly when they ask for support.

 

  • Will I need to spend any money?
    SAINTs are not expected to spend their own money and are even discouraged from doing so. However, SAINTs will need to cover the costs of their e-mail and internet services.

 

  • Will any money be available to me?
    No, the SAINTs cannot provide any sort of financial support to individuals.

 

  • Do I need to pay my own fares and accommodation at EAIE conferences?
    Yes – there are no SAINTs funds available for fares or accommodation. There is a reduction in the annual EAIE membership fee for fully-retired SAINTs. Those SAINTs chairing or presenting at conference workshops and sessions are likely to get free conference registration. The conference participation fee waiver is at the discretion of the EAIE.

 

  • What equipment do I need?
    You will need a computer, connection to the internet, and e-mail.

 

  • Can I remain anonymous?
    The SAINTs web site will show your name on a list, but EAIE members are discouraged from making direct contact. However, once a SAINT has agreed to help an EAIE member, the contact will be direct and personal.

 

  • Can confidentiality be assured in my communications?
    Your direct communication with an EAIE member is confidential. SAINTs who take on a particular support task will be asked to let the enquiries manager know that contact has been made and is active.

 

  • Can I resign from the SAINTs?
    Yes, you can resign by sending an e-mail to the Carmen Martin at the EAIE Office.


Nantes 2010
The next Annual EAIE conference will be held in Nantes, France from 15–18 September 2010
more