Kent D Thomas, assistant vice-president, International Programmes, Missouri State University, USA says, the recent deportation of students will not affect admission of foreign students in US universities. In an e-mail interview with the Express, he said the American universities and the US government are trying to ensure that every foreign student has a safe and pleasant educational experience in the country.
Excerpts
What makes American universities an attractive choice for Indian students?
One of the major reasons, I believe is that an American degree is highly regarded by employers across the globe, which makes America, a popular choice among Indian students for higher education. Moreover, America offers a world-class education with an assortment of research centric as well as career-oriented courses. Also, American government and universities offer a number of scholarships and fellowships to foreign students to ease their financial burden. Another reason is the strong Asian community in America, which makes it easier for Indian students to adjust here.
Do you think, the recent deportation row will have any impact on the admissions of Indian students in American universities?
American universities are ranked among one of the finest universities in the world. And as I mentioned earlier, American education is deemed highly by the employers around the globe, so such incidents should not impact the admissions of Indian students.
The accreditation system of US universities appears to be confusing to many students. What would be the best way to verify the accreditation of any university?
The most reliable source of information is the official website of US Department of Education. This website has a complete database of information about the institutes along with the accrediting agencies and the institutes, programmes, internships, and residencies that they accredit. Students should also refer to the free services provided Education USA, which is US Department of State network of over 400 international student advising centres in more than 170 countries. There is an official website of Education USA, along with various advising centres almost in every country. Students should take the assistance of these sources while choosing an appropriate school for their course of study.
Are the international students allowed to do part-time jobs? If yes, what is the procedure to get permission for work during the academics?
International students are allowed to work in the US. However, there are certain guidelines and restrictions issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), which students are required to keep in mind while opting for a job. International students can opt for on-campus employment and it does not require any permission from USCIS.
International students are permitted to work off campus as well, under the optional practical training status but it requires prior approval from USCIS and university’s International Student Office (ISO). Students should seek guidance from their university’s ISO prior to applying for or accepting any employment. International students should make sure that they do not engage in any illegal employment as it may result in visa cancellation and deportation.
What does Missouri State University offers to international students, in terms of courses and facilities?
Missouri State University offers a comprehensive variety of courses. MSU has six academic colleges, one School of Agriculture and one Graduate college. These units comprise the overall structure of the University’s academic programmes.
The six academic colleges of MSU include College of Arts and Letters, College of Business, College of Education, College of Health and Human Service, College of Humanities and Public Affairs and the College of Natural and Applies Sciences.
A number of majors are offered in every college which amounts to 85 undergraduate majors leading to 185 academic options and 45 graduate degree programs.