Description:

GWC embraces a global perspective across the curriculum.  The College recognizes internationalization as an integral component of modern education.  In support of GWC's educational philosophy and mission, the International Student Program (ISP) strives to provide comprehensive outreach, programming, and support services to all new and continuing international students.  The ISP is committed to maintaining core professional competencies as set forth by the National Association of International Educators (NAFSA) to properly develop and enhance programs and services; to ensure institutional compliance; to provide strategic, outcome-based marketing; and to foster cross-cultural understanding.

Highlights:

• Growth – Student enrollment has increased from 78 students in Spring 1998 to 217 in Spring 2004.  Enrollment has increased by an average of 14% each year since 1998.
• Revenue – Annual revenue has increased from $192,298 in 1997-1998 to $876,602 in 2003-2004.
• Student Support Services – The ISP is currently a comprehensive one-stop office including immigration advising; homestay placement; orientation/registration; workshops/special activities; and Club advising. 
• NAFSA: Association of International Educators recognized GWC ISP as a significant contributor to leadership/training.  Janelle Leighton was elected Chair of NAFSA Southern District 2002-2003.
• GWC was SEVIS-approved in January 2003. 
• Collaboratives were initiated with Mexico , Canada , and the Netherlands (North American Mobility grant; and Friese Poort exchange) in August 2003. 
• The Articulation agreement with ECC Kokusai College , Japan , was reviewed and enhanced in Spring 2004. 
• On-going campus outreach activities included involvement with Administrative Services, College 100, Counseling, Foundation Board, GWC Patrons, Public Relations/Research Offices, Student Ambassador Program, Student Activities, Student Health Center , and the Student Services Planning/Management Teams. 
• Off-campus outreach activities included establishing rapport and potential reciprocity with 20 local intensive ESL programs.
• Homestay options were expanded significantly (to 40 families) to facilitate the placement of students with local families.
• The ISP hosted Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian sponsor and student delegations.
• Collaboration with the community-based Friendship Partner Program was enhanced to provide international students the opportunity to interact with native English speakers – free airport pick-up service was developed in coordination with the FPP.
• ISP program information is visible in over 60 overseas advising centers/Fulbright locations.

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