International high school students don’t often get to visit U.S. campuses before they make their college decision. Research is done online, calls and emails are exchanged, but most students won’t set foot on campus before New International Student Orientation. International partnerships with high schools around the world can help make that happen.
Benefits to building relationships
In a relatively new effort for Missouri State, an international partnership agreement recently took effect with Liceo Rómulo Gallegos. As part of the agreement, students have opportunities to visit Missouri State for short-term programs prior to high school graduation. The International Leadership and Training Center provides support for these students. The experience helps students learn what studying in the U.S. is like, and whether or not Missouri State is a good fit.
Welcoming prospective students
The first student participants arrived this week. Five students and two instructors traveled from Bogota, Colombia, to Springfield, Missouri, for a nine-day program. Students will focus on improving English skills, experiencing U.S. culture, and enjoying the Missouri State environment. Great timing allows students to attend the Majors Fair, an Association of International Students meeting, a volleyball game, the International Culture Fair, and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
They’ll also have time to get to know our community and surrounding communities. In Springfield, they’ll explore arts and culture at the Creamery Arts Center. Students will visit Branson, Missouri for shopping and fun at Silver Dollar City. The Crystal Bridges Museum and Walmart Museum will round out cultural experiences in Arkansas.
Looking towards the future
In addition to providing a positive learning experience for visiting students, we’re allowing them to “try before they buy” their college experience. This is important for students, and it’s also important for Missouri State. Programs like this can become the Showcase, Public Affairs Academy, or campus visit that cause students to fall in love with our campus. We’re exploring other schools (and countries) to build more relationships like this one.