If you’re a researcher or faculty member interested in spending time at Arizona State University as a visiting scholar under my sponsorship, thank you for your interest! I regularly host visiting scholars from around the world who share interests in second language writing, applied linguistics, writing studies, and related fields. This page outlines what to expect and how to apply.
Overview
Most visiting scholars are funded by their home institutions or through external grants from their home countries. ASU does not provide funding for visiting scholars, but it can assist with obtaining a J-1 exchange visa for academic visits of up to one year.
As a visiting scholar, you will receive an ASU email address, an ASU ID, and access to library resources. You will also be eligible to enroll in graduate courses as a non-degree student. (You can also sit in on the courses for free with the instructor permission, but if you are not enrolled in the course, you will not have access to online course materials.)
Academic Calendar
ASU follows a semester system:
- Fall Semester: Mid-August to early December
- Spring Semester: Mid-January to early May
When planning your visit, it’s best to align your proposed dates with one or both of these semesters.
Opportunities and Benefits
As a visiting scholar at ASU, you will have access to:
- A vibrant academic environment and extensive library resources
- Graduate-level courses as a non-degree student
- Academic and social events across campus
- Opportunities to collaborate with me and other doctoral students and faculty
- Mentoring and consultations on your research projects
You may also have the chance to be involved with the Symposium on Second Language Writing (SSLW), either as a participant or as part of the organizing team, depending on the timing of your visit and your interests.
Application Procedure
The process starts with me. Please do not contact anyone other than me unless they reach out to you. To begin the application process, please email me directly with the following materials:
- A proposal describing what you hope to accomplish during your stay
- A complete CV
- Exact starting and ending dates (month, day and year) for your proposed visit
- A brief explanation of your funding sources
If your proposed project aligns with my research interests and I agree to host you, I will forward your materials to the department chair for formal approval. After approval, you will be contacted by staff from the English Department and ASU’s International Students and Scholars Center (ISSC) to begin the official paperwork.
Selection Criteria
The main criterion is a strong match between your research interests and my own areas of expertise. I am only able to support visiting scholars who are applying to work with me exclusively. If you are also considering other faculty members or institutions, I will not be able to move forward with your request.
About ASU
Arizona State University (ASU) is a large public research university with multiple campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area. ASU is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the U.S. for innovation, research output, and global impact. The university is home to a diverse and vibrant academic community, with world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong commitment to interdisciplinary and socially engaged scholarship. Tempe Campus offers a dynamic intellectual and cultural environment that includes lectures, symposia, performances, and community events year-round.
About Arizona
Arizona is located in the southwestern United States and is known for its stunning desert landscapes, warm climate, and vibrant cultural scene. ASU’s main campus is in Tempe, part of the greater Phoenix metropolitan area—the fifth-largest city in the U.S. You’ll enjoy beautiful weather, excellent food, and outdoor activities year-round. Popular day trips include Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and Tucson.
Winters are sunny and mild, making it an ideal place to live and work while pursuing academic and professional goals.
Living in the Phoenix Area
Visiting scholars typically rent an apartment for the duration of their stay. Some choose to live near campus in Tempe for easy access to university resources, while others opt for more affordable housing farther from campus. Families with children may choose neighborhoods with highly rated public schools.
Public transportation is available through Valley Metro (bus and light rail), which connects Tempe to surrounding areas, including Phoenix and Mesa. The City of Tempe also offers a free neighborhood circulator service called Orbit, which makes it easier to get around campus and nearby areas without a car. However, many visitors choose to buy a used car for convenience—please note that car insurance is required in Arizona.
Here are a few resources to help you get started:
Apartment Search:
Public Schools:
Transportation:
Used Cars and Licensing:
If you’re planning a stay of several months or more, I recommend beginning your housing search early and considering transportation needs in your planning.
If this sounds like the right fit, I look forward to hearing from you!