CIEP Spotlight: Petra Maier
Supporting Students Through Language, Confidence, and Connection
At the University of Northern Iowa’s Culture & Intensive English Program (CIEP), instructors and staff play a vital role in supporting international and multilingual students as they build confidence, strengthen their academic skills, and navigate life in a new culture. Petra Maier, Academic Support Specialist, has been part of that mission for nearly two decades - teaching English, coordinating placement testing and textbooks, mentoring instructors, and leading the CIEP Culture Lab and RSVP initiatives.
Petra first came to UNI twenty years ago as a graduate student in the TESOL program. Originally from the Czech Republic, she described Cedar Falls as the place that has become home, where she enjoys life with her husband Andrew, their daughter Emma, and their two cockapoos. Outside of work, she spends her time reading, cooking, gardening, swimming, taking walks, and making memories with her family.
Petra explained that her connection to the CIEP began in 2007 when she joined the program as a graduate teaching assistant. Next year will mark her twentieth year with the program—a milestone that reflects her long‑standing commitment to supporting international and multilingual students. In her current role as Academic Support Specialist, she teaches English courses and supports students in achieving their academic goals. Her responsibilities span several areas of the program, including placement testing, textbook coordination, academic coaching, mentoring junior instructors, co‑teaching introductory academic writing courses, and overseeing the CIEP Culture Lab and RSVP initiatives.
Finding Joy in Student Success
When reflecting on her favorite part of the job, she emphasized the joy she finds in connecting with students from around the world and learning about their cultures and perspectives. She shared that helping students develop their English skills and succeed academically is deeply rewarding, but what inspires her most is watching them gain confidence, navigate a new culture, and thrive in an unfamiliar academic environment. Her work with the Office of International Engagement has also broadened her own global understanding, including a meaningful experience teaching English at a partner institution in China.
Petra noted that her time at UNI has helped her grow both personally and professionally. She shared that change does not always come easily to her, but working with students from diverse cultural backgrounds has made her more adaptable and confident in her communication. Over the years, she has refined her teaching philosophy and strengthened her approach to supporting students, striving to create a classroom environment where learners feel welcomed, respected, and encouraged. She also highlighted experiences outside her usual teaching role - such as participating in STEM Camp with the Iowa Regents Center for Early Childhood Development Education and Waterloo Schools—as valuable opportunities that pushed her outside her comfort zone and contributed to her growth.
Helping students develop their English skills and succeed academically is deeply rewarding, but what inspires me most is watching them gain confidence and thrive in a new culture.
Why International Education Matters
In discussing the importance of international education, Petra emphasized its role in fostering cultural empathy, intercultural competence, and mutual respect. She shared that international and multilingual students enrich the UNI campus by encouraging cultural exchange and helping domestic students develop a deeper understanding of the world.
For incoming students, Petra offered thoughtful advice. She encouraged them to fully immerse themselves in their study abroad experience, prioritize academic success, and take advantage of the many opportunities UNI offers, from student organizations to activities hosted by the Office of International Engagement. As a former international student herself, she acknowledged that adjusting to life in a new country can be challenging, and she encouraged students to reach out for support. She noted that OIE staff are always ready to provide guidance, answer questions, and help students navigate their time at UNI.
