While studying abroad can be a fun learning experience, it also can be a stressful one, which is why it is important to have Baker University staff members help with the process.

Cindy Novelo, former director of study abroad, international and disability services, no longer  is at Baker to help students through the process. Novelo was one of 23 employees laid off last month.

Her tasks have been redistributed to Eric Hays, Student Academic Services academic support coordinator, SAS Tutoring Coordinator Sandy Davidson and Harlaxton Program Coordinator Martha Harris.

Hays said he’s working mostly with students who are in the beginning of the process, and he will be giving presentations to classes about studying abroad.

He also is taking on international student services, helping international students with things like advising and even taxes.

Hays said many of his new duties involving students studying abroad haven’t really been much of an issue.

Most students going abroad already have everything figured out.

“It’s busy, but a lot of that stuff is kind of fall heavy,” Hays said.

Sophomore Hela Kawas spent four months last semester in Rome.

She said Novelo gave her tons of tips before, during and after her time abroad, helped her choose classes that would maximize her experience and helped her choose her program.

“She helped me find the right program for myself,” Kawas said.

Harris said that on top of taking care of students going to Harlaxton, she will help recruit students to study abroad.

Harris also will be in charge of orientation for students before they leave for their specific destination.

Harris said losing Novelo means losing some efficiency, since having one person in charge of everything is easier than having several people contributing.

Novelo also had great experience, Harris said.

“She just has a lot of personal knowledge to help students,” Harris said. “Not all of us have that background.”

Kawas said Novelo’s time abroad made her an excellent source of knowledge, but she thinks those now in charge will do fine.

She believes Novelo will use this opportunity to achieve her dreams and will do a lot.

Hays said that while he understands the reasoning behind the budget cuts and layoffs, Novelo is a big loss to SAS.

“We understand what the reasoning was, but it isn’t easy,” Hays said.

Harris said she doesn’t expect that the director of study abroad position is a permanent elimination, especially if spending time abroad becomes a part of the new general education program.

“It’s not like we’re going to make this massive program change and not have anyone to meet students’ needs,” Harris said.