Alexa Argumedo, Intake Coordinator, University of Southern California Stop Reinventing the Wheel: Simple Technology to Boost International Student Services Monday, March 11, 2019 | 2:30pm-3:30pm West Hall B Alexa Argumedo, Intake Coordinator, University of Southern California

Objectives of the Research Statement of Problem As the international student population continues to grow in the United States, institutions of higher education need to provide a diverse range of online services in order to serve students efficiently and adequately Objectives of the Research Identify international students’ use of online communication channels Understand how social media and technology-based services and programs can enhance the college experience for international students Methodology Review the current literature around international students and their current use of social networking sites and other communication channels

Overview of International Student Population in the U.S. Top U.S. Institutions Hosting International Students, 2017/2018 New York University 17,552 Students University of Southern California 16,075 students Northeastern University-Boston 14,905 students Columbia University 14,615 students Arizona State University 13,459 students Top Places of Origin of International Students China India South Korea Saudi Arabia Canada Top 3 Selected Fields of Study Engineering Business and Management Math and Computer Science (Institute of International Education, 2018)

Major Findings of Literature Review Use of Social Networking Sites (SNS) International students use SNS to maintain and bridge relationships in host country and in their home country. SNS are used to adapt to new social environments and to understand host country’s cultural norms Online communication enhances social adaptation and reduces anxiety levels associated with face-to-face interactions Information Seeking Behaviors Through Social Networking Sites (SNS) International students use images and messages on social media sites to understand appropriate social behaviors in host country Social media provides students with a platform to gain information without having to reveal limited language skills Students from high power distance cultures (China, India, Middle-Eastern countries) tend to value listening and do not question authority figures. Thus, SNS allows students to interact with online programming while using passive information seeking behaviors Instant Gratification and Dynamic Learning Environments Millennials and Generation Z students seek instant information and answers Constant use of search engines instead of brochures, textbooks, or print media

Recommendations Institution of higher education should provide an online international student orientation Use orientation as a platform to introduce popular social networking sites (*Facebook, Instagram, Twitter), U.S. laws and policies, and campus culture *These social networking sites may be new to students due to media restrictions in their home country Orientation can be a live session or a self-paced online module Online platform is low in cost and can be recorded for students Use Facebook Live and Instagram Live for important programming around seasonal topics (taxes, travel, work authorizations CPT/OPT) Workshops would allow for in-person and remote student participation Recorded programming can be viewed and shared on social networking sites at anytime

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