INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS BRING DIVERSITY TO AREA

While Cape Girardeau may not be a metropolitan area, the region acquires a cosmopolitan flavor from its people. International students and exchange programs help bring the world home. Southeast Missouri State University has extended its academic welcome mat across the globe, and many countries have answered the invitation.

The university's international exchange programs with both students and faculty offer real growth potential. Currently, four exchanges are in effect, involving 20 students. Two programs operate in the Netherlands and one in Sweden. A fourth program sends students to a variety of countries, including France and England. Exchange programs with Japan and Korea are in their initial stages.

University officials are hoping these exchanges blossom, with 100 or so students going out each year.

The exchange programs also extend to the faculty. This semester two faculty members are abroad in London. Visiting faculty are expected from Sweden and the Netherlands for short stays. These faculty trips are more than just "perks." Marvin Swanson, director of international students, said these allow faculty to become more accurately informed about other cultures, which they share with students and curriculum development. These exchange "contracts" actually raise money for the institution and are used to subsidize the faculty visits, as opposed to tax dollars.

But these exchanges repre~sent small numbers. The vast majority of the international students come to Southeast on their own mostly through word of mouth. Southeast catalogs can be found in many embassies and consulates. The university's international student contingent grows steadily each year by about five to 10 percent. This fall, the university has enrolled about 375 international students, representing more than 45 countries. That includes 104 new students this semester. Japan, Turkey and the Netherlands send the largest numbers.

Many of these students live in the dormitories, sharing their unique experiences with others. They reach out into the community through the friendship family program and a speakers bureau. Students from England, Wales and Ireland taught students in Jackson last spring. A Japanese teacher met with students in Cape Girardeau elementary school. Representatives from the Republic of Belarus in the former Soviet Union visited the campus this past week, and met with community residents. These people bring the world's geography to life.

In addition to the regular university program, Southeast also operates an intensive English program. About 50 to 60 students, from a handful of nations, attend the program for eight weeks to 18 months. Most graduates enroll at Southeast; others go on to other universities or return home.

These exchange programs are more than a recruitment tool. They bring the wonders and woes of the world to our doorstep. The university and community are better for the diversity these programs offer.