As increasing numbers of highly qualified international students are choosing Carleton as their home for undergraduate degree studies, it’s becoming ever more important to understand their expectations, wants, and needs. This diverse student population faces unique challenges in transitioning to and through their studies. The ‘Hello Goodbye’ Strategic Impact Group wanted to explore how we can ensure that international undergraduate students have the best possible experience.
We undertook a review of current international student orientation and support activities, previous Carleton research on international student satisfaction, as well as a comprehensive literature review on the international student experience in the North American higher education context. A research group of senior Communications students undertook, on behalf of the SIG, a series of focus groups with current international students. A number of key issues were identified, along with a set of actionable strategies Carleton could undertake to enhance the experience of our international students.
- Merridee Bujaki: Associate Professor, Sprott
- Joshua Greenberg: Director, School of Journalism and Communications
- Kerri-Lynn Herbert: Director, Talent Programs, HR
- Tim Lott: Director, Information Security, ITS
- Sarah Ramisch: Assistant Director, Admissions
- Claire Samson: Associate Dean (Planning), FGPA
- Susan Whitney: Associate Dean (Student Affairs), FASS