The opening
of the residence halls in January is an exciting time for staff and students.
While most of our students arrive back at campus a few days before classes,
there is one group of students who often arrive a few weeks before most students,
specifically our international students. Working with students other nations can
present some challenges; however, after more than ten years working with international
students, I am confident any challenges are far outweighed by the opportunity having
a strong and diverse population of international students brings to our
residence halls.
The nations
in red on the world map reflect all the nations of the world
where a student currently
living in our residence hall identifies as their home country. As you can see
the diversity of students covers all, but one of the continents (does anyone
really call Antarctica their home?). In total each year we have approximately
150 students from other nations living in our residence halls. It is impossible
to list all the interactions that occur between students in a residential
community and I am thankful we have students from across the globe that
enriches the residential experience at Southeast Missouri State University.
I am a
strong supporter of the central role the classroom experience for all college
or university students. While I believe the classroom and role of faculty are
the center of the educational experience, I also am a strong believer that the
outside the classroom experience has significant educational benefits for
students. As our world grows increasingly smaller, the ability to remain apart
from it grows more difficult. The first-hand experience of socializing,
working, and living with people different from you can be uncomfortable, but it
is also critical to be fully able to interact in our global community.
The approximately
3,000 students who live on campus are (IMHO) among the most engaged students at
Southeast. I believe the on campus experience is only enriched by the diverse
and strong presence of students from other communities, both domestic and
international. These types of interactions with others are one of the things
that makes college different from high school. Their experiences are also part
of what helps move you from a college student to a professional with a college
degree.