Position Paper one - International student Recruitment

 International Student Recruitment 

    If there is one thing that universities across the world does well it is public relations and student recruitment. Their strategies are constantly evolving to include the newest ways to grab a potential student's attention. A university's recruitment strategy is very important to their overall success. One could claim that no matter how academically inclined the university is if they do not have a strategic PR plan then they risk losing potential students to another university with a strategic plan.  

    One university that does a really great job of international student recruitment is the University of New South Wales in Sydney. UNSW realizes that the number one way to reach potential students is by Social media. Potential students are more likely to watch a short video on social media versus searching a university's website for information. To reach international students UNSW posts culturally tailored content on social media that are localized to the students they are trying to reach. One way the university does this is by posting content on the Chinese social media app Sina Weibo.  The app, which can be described as a mix between X and Facebook, is one of the largest social media networking platforms in China. UNSW has an official Weibo account that allows them to post photos, videos, livestream content, and so much more. By using this social media platform, it helps to build brand recognition and trust. 

       The New South Wales University website is full of vibrant colors and modernized designs. Whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate, or international student it is very easy to find links to the information that you need. One link in particular under the international Student tab is how to easily apply for an Australian student visa . Here it lays out everything a potential international student will need to apply and a step-by-step guide into the entire processes. 

    The University of New South Wales regularly uploads YouTube videos for their 90.9K subscribers. The channel has different playlist on subjects such as life of campus, world leading research and societal impact, meet our people, our faculties, and so much more. Being that YouTube is streamed in over 100 countries and has content in more than 80 languages YouTube is one of the most popular video platforms globally right behind Facebook. With that being said, one could claim that the universities efforts into creating this extensive video library is energy well spent. YouTube is defiantly a great weapon in the universities arsenal in attracting almost half of their student body from international students. 

    The University is ranked number 34 in the best Global universities and ranked number three in Australia. Somethings that the university offers to international students is airport pick up services once they land in Australia, in person mentor meeting, over 350 clubs to join, and so much more! 

    Similar to the University of New South Wales the University of California in Los Angeles is globally known for its extensive recruitment of internal students. "With accomplish faculty and extensive resources, we offer world-class academic opportunities. And UCLA is a university that truly understands the needs of international students, with a range of dedicated programs and services to ensure that you get the most out of your education abroad." UCLA is ranked 13th globally and ranked 11th in the United States. 

    UCLA is known world-wide for impressive alumni such as Jackie Robinson, Sally Ride, Nicolas Cage, and Florence Griffith Joyner (Flo-Jo). UCLA has also grown its worldwide name recognition through sports. With number one ranking sports such as baseball and beach volleyball as well as ranking number two in Women's Basketball and number five in Gymnastics. While the University of New South Wales does offer high-performance Sports opportunities these sports are not as highlighted on their website and social media as those at UCLA. 

    At UCLA there is a central hub, called the Dashew Center, the center provides international students with the resources they need whether it be for student visas or support and advocacy on campus. The Dashew center has its own Instagram and Facebook pages as well as a monthly newsletter, The Post , and a weekly newsletter, The Weekly Wrap . The post provides international students information on upcoming events and resources they need such as filing their taxes. The Weekly wrap is similar to the post in providing international students with resources, however it is a little bit more condensed. Most of the event posted on the weekly wrap are happening during that week or the week following. 

    Like most Universities UCLA attends college fairs and visits high schools to try and recruit students, however unlike most Universities UCLA goes to international college fairs and high school visits. They also offer virtual Campus Tours, department- specific sessions, and open houses for potential international students who cannot travel to the U.S. 

    Similar to the University of New South Wales, UCLA is very supportive and celebrative of their international students. Along with mentors and transition and cultural adjustment support UCLA also celebrates international education week. International Education Week  is "a nationwide initiative of the U.S. departments of state and education, the week highlights the importance of international education and exchange, including the invaluable contributions of international students and scholars to our college campuses." During the week a range of events take place across the UCLA campus. From musical and cultural performances to lectures and international career workshops 

    In conclusion, both of these universities are prime examples of universities who really strive to not only attract and recruit international students but to also make them comfortable in their home away from home. Attracting these international students is only the first step in the long process in making sure that they are set up for success while in college and in their careers beyond. It is through both of these universities' immense efforts in making sure that these international students are highlighted, supported, and set up for success.