Journey to the West: Enhancing Chinese International Student Enrollment in U.S. Universities by Addressing Student Needs, U.S. Interests, and CCP Objectives

Abstract

This document contains Natalie Gilbert's practicum experience in accordance with the requirements for receiving a Master of International Relations Degree specializing in Chinese Studies from the University of Michigan. This document is composed of the entirety of reports needed to fulfill the practicum requirements, including a proposal (5,000 words), three reports (2,000+ words each), and a final essay (7,500+ words). The practicum experience was completed with the University of Michigan Global Engagement Team. This team manages the over 14 study abroad departments across U-M’s three campuses. I worked with the Global Engagement Team in the capacity of a Graduate Student Assistant for roughly 1 ½ years throughout my graduate experience. The resources I created on behalf of the team and updating website materials and other activities have allowed me to impact the roughly 50,000 students on the University of Michigan campuses.

The final report for this practicum experience focuses on increasing Chinese international student enrollment amidst rising U.S.-Chinese geopolitical tension and national security threats. The continuous low enrollment rate of Chinese international students, continuing well beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, is a cause for concern for universities because many universities rely on these students to keep tuition costs stable. At the same time, the U.S. needs these students to continue bringing their talents to boost the economy and ensure the U.S. maintains a competitive edge. In order to formulate recommendations on confronting this issue, I considered three primary stakeholders: Chinese international students, U.S. National Security interests, and CCP objectives. I also evaluated numerous sources to determine and develop actionable steps at both the university and national levels to ensure Chinese international enrollment can recover.