Unlocking global success: ASU No. 1 for international students for the third consecutive year
For three consecutive years, Arizona State University has been named the “No. 1 public university chosen by international students” by the Institute of International Education’s Open Doors Report. To learn more about the international student experience on and off campus, we connected with the Global Launch English Language Program.
ASU Global Launch is a resource available to all international students. They can begin to learn the English language in a welcoming environment, full of professional educators, while still engaging in the more social aspects of university life.
Programming through ASU Global Launch is divided into four primary programs.
- The Campus Immersion Program is designed for international students interested in engaging in an on-campus experience, taking their English language skills to the next level while traveling in the United States.
- The Online Immersion Program provides international students with a quality English language education, accessible from anywhere in the world.
- The ASU-USA Pathways Program helps students who are ineligible for undergraduate admission requirements to “earn up to 26 credits toward an undergraduate degree at ASU or any other American university.”
- The English for Undergraduate or Graduate Admission & Achievement Program is an 8-week online course to help improve English proficiency and prepare students for the demanding courseload ASU offers.
Anna Flavia Calligaris is a Global Launch student originally from Brazil. She originally started studying through ASU to improve her English language skills and pursue her interests in medicine.
When asked why she chose to share her Global Launch experience, Calligaris showed immense passion for her education at ASU.
“I wanted to share about an incredible opportunity to improve your English and immerse yourself in a rich cultural experience,” Calligaris said. “This program not only helps you enhance your language skills but also allows you to connect with people from various parts of the world.”
While the program has shown incredible results for its participants, many had to face initial adjustments when moving to the United States.
Jacinta Benítez Ramos, a Global Launch participant from Paraguay, explained some of the key differences she has noticed during her time in Arizona.
“The biggest cultural adjustment was bringing lunch to class because food on campus is expensive,” Ramos said. “Also, I had to adjust to flushing toilet paper and putting dishes in the dishwasher.”
Ramos also expressed appreciation for the chance to attend classes in person.
“The campus is beautiful,” Ramos said. “I like all the activities Global Launch organized, especially lunchtime hangouts because I had the opportunity to talk with classmates.”
This interconnectedness is a key element of ASU Global Launch, enabling international students to connect with each other and with other university students who are fluent in English. Global Launch programming opens students up to unique experiences and events, such as trips to the Grand Canyon and campus-wide scavenger hunts.
Calligaris discussed some of the more memorable activities she has engaged in during her time with Global Launch.
“One of my favorite experiences was engaging in fun conversations with my Global Launch friends,” Calligaris said. “We enjoyed cultural dinners, watched basketball games and participated in the social outreach programs. Each activity was a pleasant and enriching experience, providing a unique blend of learning and enjoyment.”
Calligaris furthered this appreciation for the connections she has made on campus, both through ASU classes and Global Launch itself.
“By joining Global Launch, you can make friends from different countries who are either studying English or other fascinating subjects at ASU,” Calligaris said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to broaden your horizons and create lifelong memories.”
When asked what makes ASU such a great home for international students, Calligaris turned to her personal experience.
“ASU is a great university for its infrastructure and the opportunities for interpersonal and professional growth and development,” Calligaris said. “It's not just about learning for professional life but also about getting to know different cultures and developing the individual.”
Photo by: Jr De Chavez