In this age of globalization, the presence of
foreign students has been perceived by universities around the world as an
effective instrument in the internationalization of their campuses. Exposing
domestic students to contact with international students has served as a
strategy to prepare students for living and working in a global community and
as a tool in developing global knowledge. It has also helped in overcoming
negative attitudes toward other peoples and cultures. In meeting the objective
of internationalization of their campuses, US colleges and universities
have actively recruited students from all areas of the world.
It was a known fact that international students go to
the United States
in search of more than an education. They wish to hone their English language
skills, to understand the American culture, and to develop friendships with US
nationals. However for the most part, foreign students fail to integrate into
the mainstream of American higher education and many return to their home
countries without meeting their academic or personal objectives. Of those who
are able to complete their academic programs, many do not enter into any
meaningful participation in American culture.
International students in the US
want to understand the American culture, their patterns of thinking and
behavior, and to learn the cultural norms. Additionally they need for the university
community to understand and value the international
students’ cultures. More interaction with American students
and families is a way to increase that type of learning.
In recognizing its responsibility for the well-being of
international students, American universities across
the nation have designed and implemented programs in an effort to meet the
students’ personal needs and academic objectives The programs included new
student and ongoing orientation, programs to pair international and domestic
students, holiday celebration programs, homestays and family friendship
programs among many others. Out-of-the-classroom, social contact has been
identified as an important factor in reducing misunderstanding and promoting
adaptation. To this end, colleges and universities have sought to match
international students with domestic students and have tailored programs to
particular target groups to assist with the adaptation process.
My question today is how many higher education institution located throughout the world are
dealing with these issues? Has your university successfully integrated your
foreign students into the mainstream of your country’s culture and education?
The academic and cultural integration of international students is congruent
with the mission of most universities in promoting the educational development
and the professional and social skills of all students. The satisfaction of
international students, their retention, their progress toward a degree, and
their full human development should be as much a concern to educators as those
of their national students.
Universities through their international services
office are responsible for examining the experiences of international students
on their campus, identifying what hinders their adjustment and integration, and
developing workable strategies to help international students feel a stronger
sense of involvement in the larger academic community. Assessing and addressing
the problems that international students experience will impact many areas. It
will aid not only in the internationalization of the campus—as stated in the
mission and goals of most universities—but it will expose domestic students to
the life styles, values, and culture of people throughout the world and thereby
enrich their experience. It will also foster goodwill between nations and will
help all students develop beneficial bonds for their personal lives and future
careers.