Wednesday, July 12, 2017

UNCW recently hosted 24 educational advisors from around the globe who work with the U.S. State Department as liaisons between international students and U.S. colleges and universities. The visit, funded by a nearly $26,000 EducationUSA grant from the State Department, was part of a partnership involving two other North Carolina universities and a community college. The group also included State Department officials and two regional educational advisors who are responsible for multiple country assignments in Africa and the Middle East.

“The 21st century ushered in a truly global economy, and UNCW has embraced an international approach to education and research,” said Chancellor Jose V. Sartarelli. “Through programs such as EducationUSA, UNCW has excellent opportunities to introduce international educational advisors to the unique qualities this university offers students in terms of academic, cultural and applied-learning experiences.”

During their visit, the guests spent a day at each of the four institutions, which included UNCW, Duke University, N.C. State University and Wake Technical Community College. They met with students and administrators, toured campuses and attended informational sessions to learn more about the American higher education system.

“The idea behind the program is to bring these advisors and regional coordinators here to see institutions representing a variety of public, private and community colleges,” said Michael Wilhelm, UNCW’s associate vice chancellor for international programs. “It was a competitive grant, and the North Carolina partners delivered a proposal that presented a comprehensive introduction to the wide range of educational experiences available to all UNCW students.”

In keeping with a key foundation of the Strategic Plan, UNCW is committed to encouraging students to study abroad and to recruiting international students. While in Wilmington, the EducationUSA group toured the main campus and the CREST Research Park at Masonboro Sound. They met with Provost Marilyn Sheerer and were introduced to the UNCW Career Center and the Office of Student Leadership and Engagement, among others.

-- Tricia Vance

#AA
#GLOBAL
#ENGAGEMENT

The EducationUSA advisors got a look at UNCW programs and facilities, including the dock serving the Center for Marine Science.

Placide Tankoano, an EducationUSA advisor from Burkina Faso, was delighted to learn that UNCW is hosting a student from his country, Elyse Tankoano.