The Faculty and Scholar Services (FSS) team in International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) at Texas Global supports international faculty members, researchers, and visiting scholars throughout their time at The University of Texas at Austin.
Working closely with scholars and academic departments, the team provides guidance on University processes, offers immigration-related support, and helps scholars navigate the many logistical considerations that come with living and working in a new country.
From preparing for arrival in Austin to settling into campus life, scholars can turn to FSS for information, resources, and individualized assistance. The team helps scholars understand University requirements, access support services, and navigate the practical aspects of their appointments so they can focus on their teaching, research, and academic collaborations.
Through orientation sessions, advising, and ongoing support, FSS serves as a resource throughout each stage of a scholar’s experience at UT Austin. In addition to providing administrative and immigration-related guidance, the team works to ensure that scholars feel welcomed and supported as members of the University community.
By helping scholars access the resources they need to succeed professionally and personally, FSS plays an important role in supporting the global exchange of knowledge and expertise that enriches UT Austin’s campus.
Here, you’ll meet three members of the Faculty and Scholar Services team and learn more about the work they do to support the global Longhorn community.
Liz Sokol, International Scholar Advisor
Liz Sokol joined Texas Global in 2019 as an assistant advisor for the FSS team and became an international scholar advisor in 2022. She is originally from New Hampshire but spent most of her life near the Canadian border in New York. Liz earned a Bachelor of Arts in history with a minor in classical studies.
Liz says one of the most rewarding parts of her role is learning about the work that scholars contribute across the University.
“Our scholars are participating in life-changing research, advancing our understanding of the world, and delving into archives to build our knowledge of the past.”
She also values the opportunity to support scholars as they adjust to life in Austin. One common concern scholars face is securing visa appointments and arriving in time for their program start dates. Liz works closely with departments across campus to help provide flexibility during the relocation process.
When asked what advice she shares with new scholars, Liz emphasized the importance of building community.
“I think the most important way to navigate culture shock is to build a strong community that can support you.”
She encourages scholars to attend Texas Global events, connect with others in Austin, and take advantage of advising appointments and English-language support resources.
Outside of work, Liz enjoys visiting the Zilker Botanical Gardens and spending time in the courtyard at Goldsmith Hall.
Daylix Molina-Irizarry, FSS Advisor
Daylix Molina-Irizarry is a faculty and scholar services advisor with the International Student and Scholar Services unit at Texas Global. She joined ISSS in 2019 and has supported international students and scholars during her time with the office.
Originally from Miami, Florida, she earned a Bachelor of Science in mass communication and a Master of Science in adult education and human resource development from Florida International University. She moved to Austin in 2018 with her husband and their cats.
She encourages scholars to ask questions and seek support whenever they need it:
“There are no bad questions, especially when it comes to your immigration record and your time here at UT Austin.”
Many scholars contact Daylix with questions about travel plans and immigration documentation. She says Texas Global often becomes a central resource for scholars navigating both immigration processes and campus life.
Daylix also encourages scholars to explore Austin during their stay:
“Get out there and just walk around the beautiful green spaces Austin has to offer.”
Mayra Cortez-Cotto, ISSS Assistant Director, FSS Team Lead
Mayra Cortez-Cotto joined Texas Global in 2018 as a senior scholar advisor and became ISSS assistant director and FSS team lead in 2021. Originally from El Paso, Texas, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Hispanic language and literature from Boston University and a J.D. from the City University of New York School of Law at Queens College.
Although much of her work happens behind the scenes, Mayra enjoys connecting with students and scholars during social events and community gatherings. She is also fluent in Spanish.
Mayra says one of the most rewarding parts of her work is meeting scholars from around the world and learning about their research.
“Learning about their work and knowing that our small efforts help support it has been incredibly rewarding.”
Supporting International Scholars at UT Austin
From advancing groundbreaking research to enriching the University’s global community, international scholars play a vital role on campus, and the team is committed to supporting their success every step of the way.
The team encourages scholars to attend events, workshops, and cultural programs that foster community and professional growth.
By creating opportunities for connection and engagement, the Faculty and Scholar Services team helps scholars build meaningful relationships, explore Austin, and make the most of their time at UT Austin.
This blog post was contributed by Sarah Chiu, program coordinator on the Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team at ISSS.
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