Rate My Professor Danielle Yamamoto Kerr

Danielle Yamamoto Kerr serves as the Manager of International Student Services at the University of Otago, a role she assumed in 2018. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with Honours degree from the University of Otago. Under her leadership, the International Student Services team delivers targeted support to meet the unique needs of international students, facilitating their successful academic and personal experiences at the university. Key services include enrolment and orientation support for all international students, comprehensive student visa information and assistance, insurance management, US Financial Aid processing for eligible students, drop-in sessions and scheduled appointments with International Student Advisers, a range of engagement activities and community events, welfare support, pastoral care, and the administration of Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships. These initiatives ensure international students receive the resources necessary to thrive in their studies and adapt to life in New Zealand.

Danielle Yamamoto Kerr contributes to university governance as an ex officio member of the Graduate Research Committee, which offers academic oversight and advises Senate on graduate research degree programmes at the University of Otago. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a pivotal role in the institution's response to challenges faced by international students. She coordinated efforts to welcome returning students, organising scaled-up events such as those held at the Otago Business School in 2022. Kerr described this period as a 'big celebration' that recognised the hard work of staff across divisions and marked a return to the 'international flavour on campus.' She underscored the team's commitment to helping students navigate travel barriers and achieve their academic dreams, stating, 'We’re always in the business of helping students to achieve their academic dreams and then set them on their pathway to where they want to be in life.' Her dedication has been evident in sustaining student support through low periods, with the success and thriving of students serving as the primary reward for these efforts.