Pitt Featured in New Report Highlighting Importance of International Education for College Students

PITTSBURGH—A report published last week by NAFSA: Association of International Educators includes a chapter on the University of Pittsburgh in an in-depth look at efforts by U.S. colleges and universities to integrate global approaches to teaching into campus learning. Made possible by support from the Educational Testing Service (ETS), a NAFSA Global Partner, and the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State, Internationalizing the Campus profiles the international education initiatives of 16 institutions and their impact on students, schools, and communities nationwide.

The report features Pitt and its efforts in international education, with particular emphasis on the University Center for International Studies (UCIS). Among the programs presented are the Title VI Area Studies National Resource Centers (East Asian, Latin American, Russian and East European, and West European), the Center for International Business Education and Research, the European Union Center, Semester at Sea, and numerous outreach programs.

In the report, UCIS Director William Brustein was quoted as saying, "We feel we're truly preparing the next generation of students … and the larger community to be global citizens and be able to maneuver in this new, globally interdependent world. We want to connect this community to the world."

"Internationalization efforts on our college campuses are part of the lifeblood of American leadership in the world today," said NAFSA Executive Director Marlene Johnson. "The institutions highlighted in this report have developed innovative ways to educate our students for a world in which global challenges know few boundaries, and cross-cultural knowledge and understanding are essential."

Through six in-depth campus profiles and 10 shorter program spotlights, the report details model approaches, exemplary practices, and major trends in international education in the United States. The featured institutions were selected by a distinguished advisory committee of international educators who examined the mission, breadth, commitment, and impact of internationalization efforts at 117 institutions nominated for consideration.

Efforts to internationalize the campus learning experience include study abroad programs; institutional linkages; faculty exchanges; the presence of international students, scholars, and visitors; curricular initiatives; foreign-language training; community outreach; and international development projects.

For more information on the report or on NAFSA (formerly the National Association of foreign Student Advisors), visit www.nafsa.org.

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