By Gina Lovasi, PhD, MPH, the Dana and David Dornsife Dean and Professor of Epidemiology at Drexel University's Dornsife School of Public Health

Being there for international students in today’s higher education environment is more crucial than ever. Navigating visa regulations and unfamiliar academic systems can be incredibly overwhelming. These students may face layers of complexity that domestic students might not encounter. With political climates changing and immigration regulations frequently shifting, the need for consistent and compassionate guidance becomes not only necessary but urgent. Providing support systems that help international students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally is needed for a truly inclusive and global campus community.

At the heart of this support is the Drexel International Students and Scholar Services (ISSS) office. ISSS offers personalized assistance tailored to the diverse needs of international students. Whether it’s advising on visa status or helping students make critical academic and personal decisions, ISSS remains a partner throughout the student’s personalized journey. Additionally, they aim to ensure every student feels seen, valued, and supported no matter their circumstances.

Each international student’s journey is unique. It’s essential that institutions resist applying a one-size-fits-all approach. Painting these students with a broad brush not only forgoes that chance to learn from and recognize their individuality, but also may fall short of meeting individual needs within their campus life. Understanding their personal goals and listening to their distinct challenges is key to ongoing efforts to continuously improve in cultivating a nurturing environment where each student can truly thrive.

The university also offers individualized events and services specifically geared toward international students. These services help students connect with resources that address their specific needs for support across mental health, academic, and cultural connection. In a time when the global environment can feel increasingly uncertain, this kind of specialized and accessible support is more critical than ever.

Faculty and staff play a vital role in this ecosystem of support too. From academic advising to mentoring and classroom interaction, their willingness to learn about and engage with international student experiences can make all the difference. Faculty and staff help bridge the gap between our aspirations and where we are, turning institutional values into day-to-day realities.

Finally, fostering open dialogue and creating intentional spaces for conversation is vital. Higher education must not only be a place of knowledge but also a space of empathy and understanding. Encouraging honest discussions about the challenges and triumphs of international students builds a more inclusive and compassionate campus. Furthermore, it aligns with the broader mission of academic freedom which encourages every voice, regardless of origin, to be heard and respected. This commitment to dialogue, empathy, and individualized care ensures that international students are not just welcomed, but able to benefit from and foster our shared learning about the drivers of global public health.