June 19, 2024

Ferris State’s Office of International Education is refining its outreach, taking Ferris message to more countries

Ferris State University’s Office of International Education staff is thinking “innovation” as it explores global markets to recruit and support a dynamic, diverse student group interested in Ferris State for higher education. 

Tara Braun, the executive director of the Office of International Education, said a shift in recruiting practices is underway to collaborate with key contacts in countries where Ferris State’s hallmark programs should resonate with students ready to study abroad. There are about 135 international students studying at Ferris State this year.  

“We are being intentional about our connections with educational consultants, the liaisons to guidance counselors at schools in areas where Ferris has not developed an identity,” Braun said. “Whether it is through EducationUSA fairs, coordinated by the U.S. Department of State or recruiting fairs at the regional or institutional level, we will have a significant presence and spread the message about our excellent programs and beautiful campus.” 

Braun said her team is excited about building relationships. 

“I stressed the need to build up our travel calendar when I detailed my vision for the office in the last year,” she said. “Our fall travel schedule will be active and strategic, so we have a place at school fairs where awareness of Ferris should grow, allowing us to build good relationships.” 

The OIE is making internal adjustments designed to bring about that intention. 

“These goals will be pursued through our international recruitment coordinator, as well as a coordinator focused on admissions, and another with expertise in immigration matters,” Braun said.  

Research gives Braun and leaders in Ferris State’s Admissions and Academic Affairs operations confidence the international student base will broaden and increase in coming years. 

“Our market analysis shows Artificial Intelligence, our College of Engineering Technology’s offerings and other STEM and computer-related learning will draw great interest,” Braun said. “Those are the programs we will highlight in our international visits, which should have a real impact on that student landscape in Fall 2025 and in the years that follow.” 

Braun said their office will continue its commitment to engage and assist these students throughout their Ferris State experience, providing highly motivated students the counseling and support, from their admission to reaching graduation. 

“We are reviewing our student intake and retention processes, as they relate to international student growth,” Braun said.” We want them to be comfortable with their surroundings at Ferris and poised to succeed as Bulldogs.”