University welcomes its largest class of international students
Nearly 550 new international students have begun their studies at UNC Charlotte, making this year’s class of incoming learners the University’s largest global contingent to enroll at the start of any semester.
In total, the University is hosting about 1,900 international students who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees or who are here for shorter cultural exchanges that is in addition to language training students. This places UNC Charlotte among the top 125 institutions in the United States in terms of international student enrollment.
The 2015 class of incoming international students marks another year of exponential growth in international enrollment, especially at the graduate level.
“The quality of our graduate programs at the master’s and doctoral levels is attracting more students to UNC Charlotte,” said Tarek Elshayeb, director of the International Student and Scholar Office in the Office of International Programs. He and his staff provide information, services and programs that assist international students and visiting scholars to become acclimated to campus. “We offer immigration and cultural advising and provide them with information on the array of University services available to help them succeed, often these services don’t exist at universities in their home countries.”
Incoming international students are from 40 countries (across all international students on campus, more than 80 nationalities are represented). Top countries by citizenship include India, China, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Japan.
Computer science, engineering and information technology continue to be popular graduate programs for incoming international students. Pre-business is one of the most popular undergraduate degrees.
“International students add much to academia. They can contribute to classroom discussions from a different perspective, and having them in the class helps to break down cultural walls. It’s a two-way avenue as many of our American students interact with them. International students learn about U.S. culture and academic and business practices, but it’s also a chance for American students to learn about cultures, customs and beliefs of other countries,” Elshayeb noted.
The University and the greater Charlotte community have a reputation as welcoming environments for international students, which aids in recruitment and retention. Having a strong international population enrolled at the University is of economic benefit to the Queen City and the region.
Elshayeb said his office works with numerous campus departments to assist international students.
“International students are integral to the campus environment. Efforts by our many campus partners to support and encourage our international students are being rewarded by our continuing growth in international enrollments,” stated Elshayeb. “Together, we are helping these students succeed in their careers, either here in the United States or in their home countries.”
According to Elshayeb, “International students add much to the campus and to the economy of the region through their financial responsibilities, such as tuition, fees, rent and living expenses. And our international students interact in the greater community to enhance the cultural diversity of campus and the city of Charlotte.”
Nationally, more than 800,000 international students are enrolled at colleges and universities. In North Carolina, there are approximately 16,000, contributing $416 million to the state economy (as reported by the Association of International Educators).
Photos: The International Student and Scholar Office conducted an orientation session for new international students prior to the start of the semester.