Task Groups

 






International Update 4-2010

Creating a Shared Vision

The International Task Group was asked to determine the actions necessary to create a more "international" environment of learning at WCU with a primary goal of increasing international student enrollment at WCU over both the short and intermediate terms. In the first phase of the study, the group performed a thorough review of current practice. The second phase of the effort developed a model to sustain WCU’s internationalization efforts over time.

KEY RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. Create a cohesive organizational structure that consolidates efforts in internationalization in a staffed office under the leadership of a director with oversight of the Center for International Programs, Global Development Collaborative, ESL, study abroad programs, and formal international agreements.
  2. Define and enhance recruitment and admission practices for international students, primarily at the undergraduate level, to include an enrollment plan that targets specific regions of the globe, an international student admissions policy with flexibility as a primary design criterion, and expanded study abroad opportunities for WCU students.
  3. Take advantage of recruitment opportunities such as international student populations enrolled in local community colleges or faculty leading study abroad experiences and add an international student recruitment component to the university web page.
  4. Enhance services available to international students while in residence at WCU:
    • Develop international student residential support services designed to increase interaction with American peers; programs should focus on first year undergraduate students in particular and include peer mentoring
    • Provide enhanced orientation programs and on-going academic support services.
    • Create a social services support structure designed to ease international students’ cultural transition
  5. Revamp the English as a Second Language Program as a time-limited course of study based on credit-bearing courses leading to a certificate.

NEXT STEPS

The process for identifying leadership for international programs and globalization has begun; President’s Cabinet will form an advisory group and is considering additional recommendations.