A survey of UWindsor faculty and staff has helped to identify challenges they face when responding to the unique needs of international students and how best to support them.

Almost 150 employees participated in the survey, produced by a working group of representatives from Academic Advising, Career Development and Experiential Learning, the Centre for English Language Development, Faculty of Graduate Studies, the International Student Centre, Office of the Associate Vice President Enrolment Management, the Office of the Registrar, and Residence Services.

In most instances, the respondents demonstrated knowledge in referring international students to the appropriate support services. However, more assistance is needed for inquiries relating to academic support, employment, and admission inquiries.

“It’s obvious that we need to close the knowledge gap in certain areas,” says Beth Oakley, director of the International Student Centre.

Based on those results, the working group has created a tip sheet that will help employees refer international students to the proper service dealing with any issue they may encounter. It also lists programs of the International Student Centre.

“Our hope is that the tip sheet will aid in educating faculty and staff so they may provide correct guidance to international students seeking assistance,” Oakley says. “It’s another way for us to make the UWindsor experience a welcoming one for all our students.”

Download the tip sheet here. For more information, contact Oakley at oakleyb@uwindsor.ca.