Webster’s defines the word liberal as “not opposed to new ideas or ways of behaving that are not traditional or widely accepted”. I have always believed that being liberal is a way of thinking— which allows you to think outside the box, and address the need of the hour in ways that have never been attempted before. This is exactly what the College of the Liberal Arts has done; when questions arise, they bring new perspectives and fresh ideas. The last few years, the entire nation has seen a growth in the number of international students studying in the United States. The students coming from China has increased by 21 % just in the last year. (IIE, Open Doors 2013) This trend is very visible in the College of the Liberal Arts at Penn State as well. Our College houses 10% of the entire international student population at University Park. This has definitely changed the student demographics at the College and has presented new challenges and learnings. In order to address this change, the College of the Liberal Arts took the bull by the horns and created a brand new advising position to work primarily with international students and create programs to help them assimilate and transition into the culture of the United States and higher education system. Since there is no other position like this at Penn State, the College of the Liberal Arts is truly showing its pioneering spirit to better accommodate its students through this initiative.
As this week is freshman international student arrival week at the University, I wanted to reach out to all of the international students in the College of the Liberal Arts and extend a warm welcome to all of you. Having been an international student just like you a decade ago, I totally understand what you are going through at this moment in time. You all have made a big decision in your life, and I know how much courage and heart it takes to leave your known land and come to a country which is so alien and new to you. I want you all to know that Penn State is a wonderful university, and it truly believes in your success and wants you to do well. If you ever have any questions, concerns, or issues, I would be more than happy to help you along with my other wonderful colleagues in the College.
I wanted to also invite you to a Welcome Party hosted by the College of the Liberal Arts Thursday August 21st, from 5:00- 6:30 pm, in the lobby of the Sparks building in your honor. We will have free food from around the world and you will get to meet your fellow students, other upperclassmen in the College, the Associate Dean of the College and of course your advisers. We sincerely hope that you all can attend. In addition the College has also created workshops and events for you throughout the Fall semester to help you succeed. Please stay tuned for them.
Once again, a heartiest welcome to all of you, and many congratulations on your admission to a great university. We at the College of the Liberal Arts wish you the very best.