Improving Public Diplomacy by Improving the International Student Experience

• In Event: Rights, Ideology, and Diplomacy: Key Issues for Intercultural Communication

Abstract

Abstract
With the increase in international students enrolling in colleges and universities in the United States, there are increased opportunities for public diplomacy but also a new array of challenges as well. This paper develops the relationship between public diplomacy and international student education and includes a description of a number of public diplomacy obstacles related to international student education. Special emphasis is placed on the importance of improved community, cultural, intercultural and institutional resources in order to provide positive international educational experiences that further public diplomacy goals. Two short case studies are presented on 1.) How policy and structural changes at a southeastern university could improve the international student experience and 2.) How such concerted efforts are justified based upon the experience and career of former Egyptian president Mohamed Morsi.

Keywords: Public Diplomacy, Higher Education, International Students, Mohamed Morsi

Author

• Benjamin Jared Triana, University of Kentucky