Perceptions of International Studentson Recruitment and Retentionat the University of Wisconsin-Stout

Abstract

The University of Wisconsin-Stout has been attracting international students since 1891. With the diverse make-up of the campus, this study surveyed 159 international students currently attending UW-Stout or recent graduates in cooperation with the Office of International Education at UW-Stout. The researcherdesigned 20 questions asking about the recruitment and retention of these participants. The survey consisted of questions using a five Likert scale to text entry, allowing the participants to freelyprovide short answers to some of the questions. Among other findings, this study reveals that UW-Stout and the Menomonie community provides a “Welcoming” environment. The majority of the survey participants were enrolled in Graduate programs and there were some suggestions for offering more Ph.D. level programsto allow these students to continue their education at UW-Stout. One of the recommendations is to encourage more public transportation to international students within the Menomonie community.