Global Connections: How U.S. Higher Education Professionals Are Reshaping International Education
With today's globalized world, internationalization is now a staple of American higher education. American higher education professionals are not merely instructors—they're ambassadors of the world connecting cultures, opening doors of opportunity, and building diverse classrooms that prepare students for an ever-more global workplace.
Why Internationalization Matters Now More Than Ever
Internationalization is not a buzzword—it's a strategic necessity. When American institutions open their doors to international students and scholars, they build diverse campus communities where diverse viewpoints come together. International students brought more than $48 billion into the U.S. economy and supported over 400,000 jobs in one year, according to recent information.
In addition to economic contributions, internationalization:
- Diversifies classroom discussions with international viewpoints
- Readies local students for international careers
- Develops enduring cross-cultural connections
- Fosters research with global collaboration
- Fosters cultural awareness and diplomacy
As a university president remarked, "Our international partnerships have transformed our institution from a regional university to one with global impact."
The EducationUSA Network: Your Global Connection
The EducationUSA network is the backbone for U.S. higher education outreach internationally. With more than 430 advising centers in 175+ nations, this State Department-funded network offers accurate, in-depth information about U.S. educational opportunities.
For international recruitment or partnership-building, EducationUSA advisers are excellent in-country representatives who are knowledgeable about local educational systems and the needs of local students.
Fairs and Events: Where Connections Happen
Virtual and in-person recruitment events continue to be effective tools for reaching out to potential international students. EducationUSA hosts hundreds of education fairs each year, reaching thousands of qualified students around the world.
These events provide valuable opportunities to:
- Meet pre-screened, qualified prospective students
- Engage with local institutions for potential collaborations
- Learn about regional educational trends firsthand
- Develop your institution's global reputation
Special Programs That Make a Difference
Programs such as the EducationUSA Academy prepare international high school students for U.S. undergraduate studies through short-term programs on American campuses. Meanwhile, the Opportunity Funds program assists highly qualified, economically disadvantaged students throughout the application process.
These targeted programs enable institutions to diversify their student bodies from around the world by accessing talented students who may not otherwise have access to U.S. higher education.
Recruitment Resources at Your Fingertips
Today's effective international recruiters use a combination of new and old tools. The EducationUSA website provides in-depth research, country data, and best practices for international student recruitment and support.
Resources available to institutions include:
- Market intelligence reports
- Student mobility trends
- Country-by-country educational system overviews
- Cultural factors for successful communication
Online Services Widen Your Reach
The shift to digital in higher education recruitment has picked up speed rapidly. Virtual tours, webinars, and social media participation now go hand in hand with the usual recruitment practices.
EducationUSA's international webinar series brings your institution together with students globally, while its social media platforms expand your institution's reach to millions of followers globally.
U.S. Government Resources and Guidance
Working in international education, navigating international student recruitment involves an understanding of sophisticated regulatory environments. U.S. government agencies offer valuable resources and information on:
- Student visa policies and changes
- SEVIS compliance guidelines
- Optional Practical Training possibilities
- Government-funded scholarship programs
The Department of State, Department of Commerce, and Department of Homeland Security each offer specialized services to higher education professionals working in international education.
Building Your Global Strategy
While global competition for foreign students grows across the globe, leading institutions design overall internationalization strategies that go beyond recruitment and involve significant integration, support systems, and worldwide learning opportunities for all students.
Through using resources above and through true cross-cultural exchange commitment, American higher education professionals can forge genuinely global institutions capable of equipping students to excel in today's global society.
For more information on internationalizing your campus, check out EducationUSA's professional resources and start your global journey today. You can also link up with the Institute of International Education and the NAFSA: Association of International Educators for more professional development opportunities
