Supporting International Students in US Higher Education

This book explores the integral role that student affairs professionals play in the success of international students at higher education institutions in the US. International student support has often been thought of as the principal responsibility of international student services offices, but research suggests that international student engagement in the broader university community, and support for them by all student affairs and services offices on campus, is closely tied to persistence and retention. The authors explore a student development theory-based approach to supporting the experience and success of international students from all facets of student affairs and services. The book explores practical and strategic implications of a more integrative approach to international student support both inside and outside of the classroom, while also utilizing a critical lens in applying models that were originally built for predominantly white institutions and US citizens.  

“This is a timely and necessary book that grounds international student support in student development theory and makes the case for integrating these theories and practices into broader institutional student affairs efforts. It is an essential resource for experienced and emerging professionals, practitioners, and students in student affairs, student success, and international engagement. It is also a critical contribution to the literature on inclusive student affairs.” (Dawn Michele Whitehead, Vice President of the Office of Global Citizenship for Campus, Community and Careers at the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U))

“This is a seminal book for anyone needing a holistic, comprehensive, and integrative approach to how best to create and sustain structures, systems and culture for supporting international student success on campuses and beyond. It is the first and only book of its kind that pairs scholars and practitioners in conversations with each other to ensure readers get the full benefits of theory and practice. The book is simply groundbreaking.” (Fanta Aw, CEO and Executive Director, NAFSA: Association of International Educators)

“This Handbook should transform today’s student affairs practice! It both addresses the development of international students in culturally relevant ways and transforms traditional practice to integrate international and domestic students in dynamic spaces for their shared learning and growth. A must-read for every student affairs educator engaged in transformative practice.” (Susan R. Komives, Professor Emerita, University of Maryland; CAS andACPA Past President)

“This book is a must-read for professionals and scholars alike on understanding the latest conceptual thinking on international student experiences and supporting them in universities today.” (Jenny Lee, Vice President for Arizona International and Dean of International Education, The University of Arizona)

“This groundbreaking volume brings together an impressive group of contributors and offers actionable insights to support one of the most crucial student populations. The book sets the course for better student support in the service of all students at a crucial time for the student affairs profession.” (Gerardo L. Blanco, Academic Director, Center for International Higher Education, Boston College)

“Read each chapter! This book artfully brings together critical and timely insights in higher education and challenges us all – through theory and practice – to fully center international student experiences on our campuses.” (Barbara Kappler, Assistant Dean, International Student & Scholar Services, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities)

“Built around a theoretical and practical approach, this edited volume is a compelling framework for the strengthening of institutional values around inclusion. I recommend this book to every current and aspiring student services professional.” (Ivor Emmanuel, Director, Berkeley International Office, University of California-Berkeley)

“Along with their notable contributors to this edited volume, Dr. Roberts and Dr. Ammigan bring their considerable expertise to a still largely unexplored, but critical topic: the essential role of student affairs professionals in the success of international students. Their definitive, innovative and original application of student development theory, along with their understanding of the unique identities (and challenges) of international students, should be on the essential set of readings for all university administrators.” (Peter H. Loedel, Professor, Department of Political Science, West Chester University)

“Providing inclusive and culturally responsive support systems for international students does not work in siloed environments. This book does an essential job of connecting the touchpoints and stakeholders needed to effectively improve not only international student success but the success of all students on campus.” (Sherif Barsoum, Senior Associate Vice President for Global Services, New York University)

“Grounded in theory and practice, this book presents a compelling case for adopting and operationalizing an integrative approach to address the needs of international students in higher education.” (Jeffrey Riedinger, Vice Provost Emeritus for Global Affairs and Professor of Law, University of Washington)

“From orientation to advising to leadership development, the authors cover all major areas of student life, and emphasize the need for centralized efforts to support international students, beyond Student Affairs and International Student Support offices. Readers will benefit from the historical and cultural context, student stories, and conceptual frameworks provided.” (Dorie Campbell, DEI Specialist, Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard University)

“Grounded in student development theory, Roberts and Ammigan curated rich and compelling essays to address the importance of integrative and institution-wide support for the success of the international student population. This book is distinctive as it offers scholars and practitioners practical guidance and trainings needed to ensure the success of a student population who navigate different transition phases and identities.” (Dimeji R. Togunde, Vice Provost for Global Education and Professor of International Studies, Spelman College)

“International student enrollment is back to pre-pandemic levels providing important opportunities to commit to student success for these students. This book comes as a timely and vital resource for colleges and universities serving the almost 1 million international students enrolled in the U.S.” (Kevin Kruger, President, NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education)

 

 

 

 

Darbi L. Roberts is Director of Operations for the College of Veterinary Medicine at Clemson University, USA



Ravichandran Ammigan is Associate Provost for International Programs at the University of Delaware, USA.