Enroll and Retain International Students: Lessons from I-House at UC Berkeley

Fostering Global Understanding: The Role of International Houses in Higher Education

The rising trend in international student enrollment, currently at its fastest rate in over 40 years, underscores the critical need for fostering global understanding in higher education. International Houses (I-Houses) have emerged as a powerful model for creating inclusive and globally-minded campus communities, addressing the challenges of integrating international students and enriching the educational experience for all.

Dr. Shaun Carver, Executive Director of UC Berkeley's International House, joined to discuss the transformative impact of the I-House model on cross-cultural exchange and global education. With over a century of history, I-Houses continue to play a crucial role in breaking down cultural barriers and fostering understanding through daily interactions and shared experiences.

Key Points Overview:

The Origins and Evolution of International Houses:

• The I-House movement began in 1908, sparked by a chance encounter at Columbia University.
• John D. Rockefeller Jr. and the Cleveland Dodge family funded the first I-House, leading to establishments at UC Berkeley and the University of Chicago.

The I-House Experience:

• UC Berkeley's I-House hosts approximately 620 residents from 80 different countries.
• A balanced mix of international and domestic students (20%) ensures cross-cultural exposure.

Addressing Challenges of International Student Integration:

• Pre-enrollment support is crucial for international students preparing for U.S. education.
• Cultural and academic adaptation challenges are comparable to those faced by first-generation and low SES students.
• Financial considerations include higher tuition rates for international students.

Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Environment:

• Balanced admissions ensure no single nationality or academic discipline dominates.
• Economic diversity is maintained through financial aid.
• Intentional room assignments pair students from different countries.

Long-Term Impact of the I-House Experience:

• Alumni report lifelong friendships and transformative experiences.
• Notable alumni include Nobel Prize winners, heads of state, and business leaders.

The Unique Identity of I-House Residents:

• Residents develop multiple affiliations: with the university, their specific schools, and I-House itself.
• The I-House affiliation often becomes the strongest over time.

Future of International Houses and Global Education:

• Potential for I-Houses to play an expanded role in fostering dialogue on controversial topics.
• Aspirations to scale up the I-House impact globally.

Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Presidents and Boards:

1. Lead with clear values and cultural principles, articulating them to all stakeholders.
2. Maintain consistent policies across all groups to build credibility and trust.
3. Protect freedom of expression by distinguishing between education and indoctrination.

Final Thoughts

The International House model offers valuable lessons for higher education institutions seeking to create truly global learning environments. By intentionally fostering cross-cultural interactions and maintaining a commitment to open dialogue, universities can prepare students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. The principles embodied by International Houses provide a roadmap for creating inclusive, intellectually stimulating environments that benefit both international and domestic students, ultimately contributing to a more connected and empathetic global society.

Read the transcript and extended show summary on our website at:  https://changinghighered.com/enroll-and-retain-international-students-i-house-uc-berkeley/

#HigherEducation #InternationalStudents #IHouse

About Our Guest

With over 20 years of experience in international education and higher learning, Dr. Shaun Carver is the Executive Director and CEO of International House at UC Berkeley, a renowned institution that fosters intercultural respect and understanding among people from around the world. Dr. Carver holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California and an MBA from California State University San Marcos.

About the Host

Dr. Drumm McNaughton is the founder, CEO, and Principal Consultant at The Change Leader, Inc. A highly sought-after higher education consultant with 20+ years of experience, Dr. McNaughton works with leadership, management, and boards of both U.S. and international institutions. His expertise spans key areas, including accreditation, governance, strategic planning, presidential onboarding, mergers, acquisitions, and strategic alliances. Dr. McNaughton’s approach combines a holistic methodology with a deep understanding of the contemporary and evolving challenges facing higher education institutions worldwide to ensure his clients succeed in their mission.