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MU Celebrates International Education Week
"During the past year, it has become very clear that broadening our international understanding is critical," says Secretary Paige. "This will mean renewed efforts to encourage the study of foreign languages and cultures, and to provide opportunities for all students to broaden their knowledge of the world." Secretary Powell adds that "People-to-people diplomacy, created through international education and exchanges, is critical to our national interests. Americans who study abroad expand their global perspective and become more internationally engaged. Foreign students and individuals who participate in citizen exchanges return home with a greater knowledge of our democratic institutions, and America's enduring values." In observance of International Education Week, MU is promoting international education by spotlighting and celebrating the year-round efforts that contribute to our increasingly internationalized campus. A listing of International Education Week events, an on-line photo gallery, and more information about international education at MU are available at /events/iew2002.html. Rethinking International StudiesA roundtable meeting hosted in spring 2002 by the Social Science Research Council in Washington, D.C. brought together higher education leaders from around the country to address the state of international studies in the U.S. The Council’s latest Items & Issues publication includes a selection of essays and commentaries resulting from the discussion. In his essay outlining the historical development of international studies in America, Robert Vitalis, Director of the Middle East Center at the University of Pennsylvania, traces the formal study of international affairs in America back to the turn of the century when “the Northeast consolidated its control of the Southern and Western states and territories, and began to exert dominion over races and resources beyond the formal boundaries of the Republic.” Director of the International Center for Advanced Studies at NYU Thomas Bender’s related commentary further challenges the widely held notion that U.S. institutions only became serious about international education after WWII. Bender points out that in labelling its history of empire as “western expansion,” America obscures its long participation in internationalism, breaking the continuity that exists between its own past efforts to deal with issues of race and development, and similar dynamics that characterize the modern global stage. Additional essays in the volume touch on the importance of moving beyond disciplinary distinctions such as those that position area studies programs as being separate from more systematic approaches to international studies. The authors argue that recognizing the varied intellectual components that have led up to, and still define, current efforts to impart global competence to our students will strengthen university leaders’ability to advance the cause of international education as a whole. The Summer/Fall 2002 issue of Item & Issues is available online at: http://www.ssrc.org/. 2002 International Bazaar a Success
More than a dozen international student organizations organized displays, including groups ranging from the African Student Association to the Japanese Student Association. Each maintained a common goal: to share their traditions and customs and to educate others about their homeland. Anca Geana, a member of the Romanian Student Association, was eager to share information on her native country, saying that her reason for participating in the bazaar was to “promote culture and to share values.” The groups shared foods from their country, musical instruments, arts and crafts, books, brochures, jewelry, television programs, and music. Many also dressed in traditional clothing and translated English names to their own language. In addition to the food and entertainment, the international students were eager to talk with visitors and took part in spirited discussions. The crowd seemed delighted to meet new people and take part in the festivities. Lisa Green, an assistant instructor from MU’s Child Development Lab, brought her students to the Bazaar and explained that since the children themselves come from diverse backgrounds, they are generally comfortable with different people and experiences. She explained, “Some (kids) are taking it in, some (kids) are overwhelmed.” The lively music, the diverse cuisine, the array of traditional clothing, and the camaraderie amongst people of all backgrounds, proved to be a successful combination for showcasing MU’s cultural diversity. MU Opens Peace Corps Recruiting OfficePeace is now on campus full time! Peace Corps that is. Resulting from President Bush and Peace Corps Director Gaddi Vasquez’s goal of doubling the program’s volunteer population, Mizzou was recently selected to receive its own campus recruiter. Dr. Don Spiers, a faculty member in the Animal Sciences Department and a former Peace Corps Volunteer (Venezuela '73-'75), worked with Erin McHenry (Peace Corps Recruitment Coordinator – Chicago Office) to develop a proposal for the creation of a recruiting office in Columbia. Dr. Spiers, along with Associate Dean Paul Vaughn, Dr. Jim Spain and Provost Brady Deaton, organized the installation of this new position to include a half time assistantship along with a tuition waiver for a graduate student on campus. Camille Humbles, a graduate student in the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department, has accepted the position. A former Peace Corps Volunteer (Mauritania '96-'98), Humbles has just returned from a four-month position as a Crisis Corps Volunteer in Mauritania. Her office is located in the Dickinson Student Achievement Center on the first floor of the Agricultural Building, where she encourages all juniors and seniors to stop by to learn more about the Peace Corps. Camille may also be contacted by e-mail (cmh9b0@mizzou.edu) or phone (882-9527). Global Notes
Study Abroad Participation Holds Steady
Returning to a trend that has generally characterized MU study abroad programs, more MU students studied abroad for a semester or academic year, than for a summer term. MU’s study abroad advisors have always encouraged students to consider the relative advantages of a longer-term study abroad program in terms of linguistics, cultural knowledge, and finances. The typical cost per day of a semester or academic year program is generally lower than that of a summer program. However advisors also understand that summer study abroad may be the best option for many MU students. “We recognize the value of summer programs for students whose degree requirements will not permit them to participate in a longer program. Also, we have found that summer study abroad participation can lead students to undertake a longer study abroad experience,” says Barbara Lindeman, Director of MU Study Abroad. With two-thirds of incoming freshmen indicating that they are interested in studying abroad, MU is striving to make the opportunity not only academically, but also financially feasible for all students. By keeping programs affordable and facilitating the use of all institutional, private, and federal financial aid, students are discovering that study abroad is a truly accessible option. In addition, the MU study abroad team is committed to identifying new scholarship resources. MU students studying abroad during 2001-2002 were awarded in excess of $100,000 in scholarship funds. This amount doubles the amount awarded in the previous academic year. One major source of scholarship funding has been the General Education Program scholarship awarded to incoming freshman at MU. These $1,000 scholarships are redeemable upon enrollment in a study abroad program. Seven MU students will have utilized these funds during the 2001-2002 academic year. In addition, the MU International Center has worked with outside program providers to obtain scholarship aid, and has assisted MU students in applying for and earning national scholarships such as the Freeman-Asia Award and Gilman Scholarships. “There is currently more funding for undergraduate study abroad from the U.S. government and outside sources available than there has been at any other time during my 12 years working in this field,” Lindeman stated. In conclusion, study abroad is alive and well at MU. The MU study abroad team is hopeful that in spite of the often uncertain global environment, students will continue to make studying abroad a key component of their MU education. Cuba la BellaEver since the Spanish-American War when United States and Cuban citizens fought side by side for Cuba’s independence from Spain, the U.S. has had a strong connection to this Caribbean island. During the 1950s, Cuba was a hot spot for U.S. tourists. However, when Castro’s rule began and the U.S. declared a trade embargo, this once thriving economy lost all access to U.S. tourists. In recent years, however, U.S. citizens have been allowed back into the country as students on study abroad programs. U.S. interest in Cuban culture is on the rise, which can be seen through the popularity of Cuban cuisine and music, as well as from the response to a recent diplomatic trip to Cuba by former U.S. president Jimmy Carter. Bulter University’s Institute for Study Abroad (Butler-IFSA), with which MU has a partner program agreement, was the first U.S. university to send students to study directly at the Universidad de Havana. Program participants take regular university courses in the areas of humanities, social sciences, geography, and psychology, in addition to a required Spanish course to perfect their command of the language. Students live together in a villa near the university, but despite their segregated housing, students have plenty of contact with Cuban nationals. The Cuban people are friendly and open to getting to know the students who study there, despite political tension between our countries. This past Winter 2002 Semester, Johnny Finn, an MU Latin American Studies major, took part in the Butler-IFSA program to Cuba. Finn took full advantage of his time in Havana, taking classes toward his major, developing fluency in Spanish, and perfecting his skills in drumming and percussion, a strong interest of his which attracted him to Cuba. However, Finn found that one semester was not enough time, and decided to return to Cuba for the Fall 2002 Semester. Finn arranged with MU faculty members to receive credit for an internship, an independent study project, and research towards his Capstone course. In order to legally return to Cuba, Finn had to work with the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control to get an individual license to study there. Finn says that all his efforts have paid off. “Cuba is amazing. I am honored to have the opportunity to see Cuban life under the Castro regime, and hope that I will be able to return again when our countries are on friendlier terms.” Study Abroad Team Advises the AdvisorsIn October the study abroad team held its second annual series of workshops for Advisors Forum members. As the number of University of Missouri-Columbia (MU) students who elect to study abroad grows, and the number of study abroad options continues to increase, the job of advising students about course selection for study abroad becomes more complex. The purpose of the workshop, therefore, was twofold: to increase familiarity with the resources available for advising students and to clarify the entire study abroad application process. The workshop provided an opportunity to delve into both theoretical and pragmatic aspects of study abroad programming. Topics ranged from “What do we want MU students to gain from a study abroad experience?” to “Internet resources for study abroad advising.” The presentations were conducted by MU study abroad staff, with ample time allowed for questions and answers. Several participants noted that it would have been helpful to have had access to the information presented in the workshop earlier in their advising careers. A number of participants were impressed by the wealth of information regarding course offerings at MU’s exchange and partner universities abroad that is available on the World Wide Web. A similar workshop directed toward the needs and interests of faculty members who advise students on course selection for study abroad is planned for February 2003. For more information, please contact Lynn Aguado, Study Abroad Coordinator, at 882-0909 or at Aguadol@missouri.edu. International Enrollment Up SlightlyAfter a tumultuous year that left little hope for increases in international student enrollment across the nation, MU’s international student population edged up slightly from 1,317 to 1,327 this fall. International graduate student enrollment continued to provide the primary boost to the overall positive trend with a 2.6 percent gain from the previous year. International graduate students comprise 77 percent of the total international student enrollment at MU. Undergraduate international student enrollment declined from 314 to 298, a five percent decrease. A persistent negative trend at the undergraduate level has continued over the past six years with a five percent decrease since 1996 when 529 international undergraduates were enrolled that fall. The leading countries of origin were: People’s Republic of China (228), India (210), Korea (203), Taiwan (88), Thailand (56), Japan (44), United Arab Emirates (34), Malaysia (31), Canada (26) and Turkey (23). Approximately ninety-five different nationalities are represented within the MU international student community. Nonresident Alien Tax IssuesAll persons who have U.S. income during the tax year 2002 must file a U.S. tax return before April 15, 2003. The forms needed to complete a tax return may include a W-2 from all 2002 employers, a 1042-S, and a 1099-Misc or 1099-DIV (Not all taxpayers receive all these forms).
Free tax return preparation assistance will be provided to nonresident aliens by MU at times and a location yet to be announced. If you have moved recently, make sure Judy Todd (ToddJ@missouri.edu) has your current address, so your tax return paperwork will reach you. Jill Hermsen Joins ISSS StaffThe International Center is very pleased to welcome Jill Hermsen to the International Student and Scholar Services team. Jill came on board October 28, 2002 and will be advising F and J students as well as coordinating international student orientation programs. Originally from Iowa, Jill has lived in Paris, France and Copenhagen, Denmark in addition to Washington, D.C., Houston, Boston, and the San Francisco area. Jill’s background includes five years of communications and general management consulting experience for corporations and the U.S. government. She received her Ed.M. in Administration, Planning and Social Policy with an emphasis in higher education from Harvard University. Her B.A. in Sociology is from Briar Cliff College. In her spare time she enjoys cooking, hiking, camping and, most of all, traveling. When asked what aspects of the position appeal to her most, Jill replied that, in addition just to being back on a college campus, she looks forward “to providing a helpful, friendly environment for international students at MU.” Please join us in welcoming Jill to the MU community. She may be reached at hermsenjm@missouri.edu. Investing in the Future: the Muskie Freedom Support Act
In 1992 Congress established the Freedom Support Act in honor of Edmund S. Muskie, former vice presidential candidate and Democrat senator from Maine, “to bury forever the distrust and misunderstanding that characterized our previous relations with the former Soviet Union” and “support democracy and free markets in the crucially important part of the world.” The program has grown from a modest 150 fellowships per year to 344 fellowships awarded in 2001. Graduate students pursue degrees in business and public administration, journalism, education, public policy, health environmental management, and international affairs. Undergraduate participants come for one-year non-degree programs in a variety of academic fields. Fritz Cropp, Assistant Professor of Journalism, David Currey, Director of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and Carol Fleisher, Coordinator, ISSS, attended the annual Muskie-FSA workshop, entitled “A Decade of New Leaders and Partnership in Eurasia,” held in Washington, DC from September 18-21, 2002, along with several 1st year Muskie Graduate Fellows from MU. Currey stated, “Learning more about the fellowship and getting to know the Muskie Fellows currently studying at MU gave me a greater appreciation for the program and the importance of the administrative support our office provides to these students.” The program’s special sessions and presentations included talks by George Mitchell, former U.S. Senator from Maine and author of the Muskie Fellowship legislation and Dan Davidson, President, American Councils for International Education, a non-profit organization that handles program administration for the Muskie Fellowship program. Cropp said, “The current Muskie Fellows at MU are certainly some of the brightest, most talented scholars we’ve hosted. This program is one of the better investments that MU can make in its efforts to internationalize as well as impact future relations with leaders of the Newly Independent States.” 2002 Study Abroad Photo Contest Winner
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Secretary of State Colin L. Powell and Secretary of Education Rod Paige have called for the celebration of International Education Week, November 18-22, 2002. International Education Week is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences in the United States.
This year’s International Bazaar was a hit with MU students, faculty and staff, and members of the community. Held on Wednesday, October 23rd, the Bazaar, which was originally scheduled for Lowry Mall, was held in Memorial Union’s Stotler Lounge due to poor weather conditions. The Bazaar drew a large crowd of people eager to sample an array of cuisine from around the world and join in the festivities.
For nearly a decade the University of Missouri-Columbia has been an active partner in the Edmund S. Muskie Freedom Support Act (Muskie-FSA), hosting international students from Eastern Europe, Eurasia and the Baltic States. This year MU is particularly fortunate to host twenty Muskie Fellows from Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.
Congratulations to Meaghan Doyle, winner of the 2002 Study Abroad Photo Contest! Meaghan spent the 2001-2002 academic year in Argentina, through the IES program in La Plata (an MU Partner Program). In her photo entitled La Despedida, Doyle explains that “Nacho, 5, shares a final moment with Lo before saying good-bye in Sierra de la Ventana.”