Expanding Perspectives, Inspiring Learning - Olympic College

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: : 2006 - 2007 OLYMPIC COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT : :
Expanding Cultures
International Student
Program Brings
Global Perspective
Olympic College stepped up its efforts to grow
its international student program in 2006-2007.
Program organizers went to more countries,
including Taiwan, Okinawa and Tokyo, and
began developing partnerships with overseas
agents, who match students to different colleges.
The International Student program also hired a
full-time program assistant to help students make
the transition to the institution and work with
agents across the world.
“By stepping up our efforts, we’re getting our
name known in the international community,” said
Gerry Stamm, director of International Student
Programs.
International students have come from Japan,
Korea, Philippines, China, Taiwan, Vietnam,
Peru, Russia, the Netherlands, Antigua, Egypt,
Cambodia, Jamaica, and Thailand. In 2002,
the first year of the program, six international
students had enrolled. By 2006, the number had
grown to 21.
Prior to 2002, the college did not have formal
admission for students from other countries. A
structured program was started that would bring
a global perspective to the college and create a
cross cultural exchange.
“The world is getting smaller. It’s becoming more
essential for the United States to learn about other
countries. The college recognized the importance
of bringing different cultures into the classroom
and into the community,” said Stamm. �
– “Connecting Cultures,” photo provided by the OC
Communications Department.