Meet Mercedes Hayduk, Manager, International Student Programs

Meet Mercedes Hayduk, Manager, International Student Programs

Mercedes Hayduk has been involved with the International Student Program since 2012 and has dedicated her career to creating meaningful international education experiences for students from around the world. Growing up in North Vancouver, Mercedes was immersed in international education from an early age, having international students live with her family and become part of her home life. These experiences sparked a lifelong passion for cultural exchange and global learning.

Mercedes studied International Political Relations at university and later spent two years living in Japan with her husband, gaining firsthand experience of living and working in another culture. In 2009, they relocated to Campbell River with their two young daughters and quickly embraced the community and lifestyle of Vancouver Island.

Today, Mercedes leads the International Student Program while continuing to share her enthusiasm for intercultural connections. Her husband is a Math and Science teacher at Carihi Secondary, and together they enjoy making the most of the region's incredible natural surroundings. An avid camper and mountain biker, Mercedes can often be found exploring local trails and forests on weekends with her husband and their miniature schnauzer, Magnus.

Mercedes is passionate about helping students feel at home in Canada while creating opportunities for them to grow, connect, and experience the best of life on Vancouver Island.