International students are so much more than cash cows

Mark A. Ashwill Articles, Commentary, , , , ,
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Here’s my latest article for University World News. My original title was Towards a More Inclusive Approach to International Student Advocacy.

Truth be told, the tone and direction of the essay changed after some email exchanges with Fanta Aw, the new CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Her perspective is a breath of fresh air and, I hope, an indication of the enlightened leadership that she brings to that organization. (Dr. Aw is the first NAFSA CEO who came to the US as an international student.)

Shalom (שלום), MAA

One thought on “International students are so much more than cash cows”

  1. Dear Mark,

    As you likely have seen, this week NAFSA released its analysis of the economic contributions made by international students at U.S. colleges and universities during the 2022-2023 academic year. The figures are impressive!

    In addition to the social, cultural, and academic benefits international students bring to this country, they generated more than $40 billion in economic activity and supported more than 368,000 jobs. This is the second year where we’ve observed an increase compared to the previous year; a welcome continuation of a post-pandemic rebound.

    These figures help us make the case with members of Congress–who are especially attuned to arguments grounded in dollars and jobs–that international students make important contributions to the U.S. economy and our country should do more to welcome them.

    Can you help?

    We’ve prepared a sample message for you to send to your senators and representative which can be customized with the specific dollar and jobs figures for your state and congressional district, respectively.

    The message to your members of Congress includes a call to support expanding dual intent and creating a pathway to a green card so a larger and more diverse community of international students can follow their dream of learning and working in the United States.

    Of course, we also hope you’ll deliver these messages directly during NAFSA’s virtual Advocacy Day in March. Registration is open!

    Thank you as always.

    Best,

    Erica

    Reply

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