A Study of Student Services for International Students in the Virginia Community College System

Author:
Tashjian-Brown, James Emerson, Curry School of Education, University of Virginia
Advisors:
Walter, Paul B., Curry School of Education, University of Virginia
Beard, Richard L., Curry School of Education, University of Virginia
Gibbs, Annette, Curry School of Education, University of Virginia
LaFleur, N. Kenneth, Curry School of Education, University of Virginia
Abstract:

This study investigated the problems that are unique to the international students who study in the community colleges in the Commonwealth of Virginia, particularly J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, Richmond, Virginia. The “International Student Problem Inventory” was administered to seventy-two international students and to twenty-eight American students at the college. Results of the survey indicated that international students have greater problems than American students in at least three major areas, Financial Aid, English Language, and Placement Services.
Further investigation indicated that several subgroups of international students were having greater difficulties than other subgroups. This investigation included the students’ home country, college major, marital status, age, sex, length of stay in the United States, and first-language preference.
International students at this college included refugees, permanent residents, and “F-1” Student Visa holders. All categories of problems on the inventory were studied according to the international students’ Immigration and Naturalization Service classification. The study concluded with specific suggestions for community colleges in working with the three problem areas of Financial Aid, English Language, and Placement Services.

Degree:
EDD (Doctor of Education)
Keywords:
Virginia Community College System--Students, Students, Foreign--Virginia
Language:
English
Rights:
All rights reserved (no additional license for public reuse)
Issued Date:
1978