It's up to us all to support these recent governmental efforts - and keep the momentum building. That's why IEF urges school representatives and other educational organizations to speak out about their concerns. By working together, we can help the country understand why international education exchange is so vital to our national interests.
Want ideas on how to get involved? Following are suggestions from NAFSA: Association of International Educators, which played an important role in getting the president's support of this initiative.
- Thank the President for his leadership on the policy.
Government officials are rarely thanked for their efforts. That's why NAFSA is encouraging international educators to write thank you letters to the president. You may address letters to "Dear Mr. President" and mail them to the following address:
The President
The White House
Washington, DC 20500
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Build awareness of the need for a national policy on international education both on campus and in your community.
NAFSA encourages you to make copies of the President's memorandum. Meet with important stakeholders and community leaders. Explain current challenges involved in international recruitment. Identify potential partners. Encourage others to consider how they can get involved.
- Ask the government for further support.
Consider how your elected leaders can advance the cause. Write letters. Arrange meetings. Involve representatives from other colleges and universities to help support your cause.
- Write letter to editor.
Help shape public opinion by writing a letter to your local newspaper editor. Keep it brief, about a page. Explain how the nation benefits from foreign students economically and politically.
