Carmen Neghina

4 steps to international student satisfaction

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International student satisfaction

It’s time to celebrate International Education Week with the release of the 2015 Open Doors report by the IIE. With more students than ever being internationally mobile, an international education is becoming a critical aspect of the 21st century, helping the future generation succeed in an ever-interconnected world, and gain valuable intercultural skills and become active global citizens. In the words of IIE’s President, Dr. Allan E. Goodman:

“Studying abroad is one of the best ways undergraduate and graduate students gain the international experience necessary to succeed in today’s global workforce. And studying in another country prepares students to be real contributors to working across borders to address key issues in the world we share.”

In order for international education to truly succeed, it also requires an active participation from the side of universities, that are responsible for making the student experience as fulfilling and successful as possible. Throughout our research, some key issues become predominantly important in terms of international student satisfaction.

Poznan University International Student Satisfaction Awards 2015

1. International atmosphere

Having a great international atmosphere was mentioned in over 15% of all the positive reviews of international students. An international atmosphere doesn’t just mean having a large international student body, but also means facilitating interactions between international and local students. Students also appreciate the opportunity to discover their host country, explore their surroundings and travel, try out new sports, and head out on cultural outings as a means of enriching their cultural knowledge. Easy ways to facilitate a better international atmosphere at universities around the world is to facilitate interactions between students and local communities, providing volunteering opportunities, supporting cultural events in English, or the student’s native language, as well as generally encouraging students to take initiative and develop their own groups and communities based on their interests.

2. City atmosphere

When reviewing their international study experience, the city atmosphere plays a big role in positive reviews. Students mostly consider a city’s atmosphere, its appearance and size as important elements to their study experience. Some students also focus on their contact to the local community, and whether they felt welcomed or not, and the general feeling of acceptance, openness and helpfulness. Studying abroad comes with its own set of challenges, among which that of ‘culture shock’ as students try to adjust to life in a new country. There are several strategies universities can help students adjust to living in the host country, such as organizing social gatherings connecting local and international students, and help build intercultural connections, as well as a deeper understanding of the various cultural differences between different nationalities and culture groups. Some universities also provide a buddy system that helps students connect with locals, or a coach or adviser for students who need help navigating the new legal and social regulations, such as getting their driving licence recognized in the host country, registering with the local government officials, or opening a local bank account. This type of support can lead to a more relaxed atmosphere and help lower the stress levels that come with moving abroad, and help international students quickly adjust to life in a new country.

there is a huge interest from the side of students towards us, foreigners. They loved our company and were very curious and interested in us, that was very nice.”

3. Interesting and challenging study subjects

A large part of an international education is of course the study programme itself. When reviewing their international study experience, the study progamme plays a big role in whether students report being satisfied with their overall experience or not. Students prefer programmes that have a clear structure, are well organized and flexible. Being happy with their study, and having a sense of improvement, learning, and development while working towards a future career all contribute to self-fulfillment and the happiness of international students. Academics were mentioned in over 25% of all positive student reviews, with the subject of study being one of the most important academic aspects students referred to in their reviews.

4. Good teachers

Having a good curriculum needs to also be supported by great teachers: students expect excellent teachers who guide, inspire and support them in their education journey. Having a teacher who recognizes what makes every student unique, the perspective ever student can add to classroom discussions, and who spends time building a sense of rapport and mutual respect with the student can be a powerful tool in ensuring student satisfaction. It’s no surprise that teachers were mentioned in more than 5% of all positive reviews on STeXX.com.

Read more about international student satisfaction throughout Europe.

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