The Future of EdTech: Hope, Empathy, and Connection (Part 2)

Paige Steffy returns for Part 2 of her two-part conversation — and this episode shifts from personal journey to global perspective.

Having experienced life as an international graduate student in the U.K., Paige understands firsthand the emotional complexity of studying abroad: the uncertainty, the excitement, the homesickness, the growth. Now, working within the EdTech space at Unibuddy, she stands alongside students as they navigate those same transitions.

In this thoughtful and forward-looking discussion, Paige reflects on the three themes that consistently shape international education: hope, empathy, and connection.

She explores how student ambassador programs, peer-to-peer engagement, and authentic storytelling are transforming how prospective students make decisions — and how institutions can better support them.

This episode asks an important question: What does the future of international education look like — and how do we build it with humanity at the center?

Episode Summary

02:26 – Exploring the roots of Paige’s last name, “Steffy.”
03:32 – Why international education is so deeply meaningful to her.
05:29 – How her experience as an international student in the U.K. shaped her ability to bridge cultures professionally.
09:18 – Her unique perspective working across multiple sides of the international student journey within EdTech.
10:30 – Why student ambassadors are critical to the decision-making process for prospective students.
13:51 – A story about an international student at Willamette University who specialized in aquaponics.
18:34 – What gives Paige hope for the next generation of students.
20:05 – The responsibility adults have to foster hope in international students.
21:33 – Strengths of the U.S. international education system — and where it can learn from others.
23:28 – Where she sees the international student industry evolving in the next five to ten years.
25:01 – What Paige is most grateful for in her career serving international students.