The Role of Faculty Interaction in the Academic Lives of Undergraduate International Students at U.S. Research Universities

• In Event: Student-Faculty Engagement and Interactions

Abstract

International students in the U.S. have significantly transformed U.S. higher education. Despite uncertainty regarding U.S. immigration policies, international student interest in U.S. higher education remains steady across institutions. To promote college success of international students, we need a better understanding of their academic experiences and outcomes. The present study examines the relationship between student-faculty interaction and college GPAs among international students using multilevel analyses. Interaction with faculty has a positive and significant impact on college GPAs; the relationship is partially mediated by changes in academic climate. These findings call for further research on institutional-related climate of international students and have important implications not only for U.S. faculty, but also for university administrations to promote college success of international students.

Authors

• Sanga Kim, University of Iowa

• Jodi L Linley, University of Iowa