Keila Ferree is the manager of international admissions. She works to bring students from all over the world to Columbia College.
When did you start working for Columbia College?
July 2007
What excites you most about working here?
I love to travel, meet new people and experience different cultures. I enjoy bringing this same opportunity to the international students that I work with – sharing all that Columbia, Missouri, has to offer, explaining campus activities and the lifelong connections made during the college experience and showcasing American college life.
What were you doing previously?
Prior to joining the Admissions Office I worked in the Columbia College Student Records and Transcripts Office and the Ousley Family Veterans Service Center.
Where are you from originally?
Nevada, Missouri
Who or what influenced you professionally?
In college I studied and traveled abroad in Europe and China. These opportunities gave me a passion for international travel and a desire to experience other cultures. My sisters have lived and worked abroad in Lebanon, Egypt, England and Thailand. My personal experiences and family ties abroad have enhanced my understanding of the importance in acting as a global citizen and increased my desire to connect with international students. I hope to share with them the opportunities for study abroad that shaped my views when I was in college.
Tell us about your family.
I am married. My husband is a Boone County Sheriff’s Deputy (and CC grad!).
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
I enjoy riding my bike on the Katy Trail, watching movies at Ragtag and of course traveling!
Favorite book and/or author?
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
Favorite food?
Navratan Korma from Taj Mahal, the Awakening smoothie from Main Squeeze and the Brisket and Pappardelle Stroganoff from The Wine Cellar and Bistro – yum!
Favorite type of music?
I love Christmas music. I could start listening to Christmas music in October and keep listening in to February.
Favorite sports team?
My favorite sport is tennis. I am a big fan of Roger Federer.
