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SpeechesInternational Students Welcome
Graham B. Spanier
Good morning. I am pleased to be here today to welcome all of you to Penn State and to help you kick off this new phase of your life at our University. It is a pleasure to look out and see the many people who are helping Penn State and its students reach beyond the walls of our institution into a world that is being drawn closer together. August 17, 2005 We are thrilled you have chosen Penn State as the place to pursue your dreams, because as an international research institution, Penn State has much to offer you in the way of learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. It is my hope that you will take full advantage of these opportunities and become deeply involved in the life of this University. Wherever you go, if you say, "I attend Penn State," you will find tremendous recognition and respect for the education you are receiving. You also are very likely to find proud Penn Staters in all parts of the world, for our University family is large and loyal. Education is a powerful tool that will not only enhance your knowledge and skills, but also can greatly help the prosperity and well-being of the United States and your homelands. Your presence here is about more than acquiring a degree. The importance of our work across international borders and the need for international understanding and cooperation has never been more important than it is today. Your presence allows Penn State students to gain a broader understanding of the world and its many different people. Thank you for helping us achieve these important goals. At Penn State, we value highly diversity and continue to foster opportunities to expand international and multicultural understanding. Over the years, we have taken a number of steps to move international studies and programs to the center of our teaching, research, and outreach activities. Overall, Penn State is home to nearly 4,000 international students and is ranked among the top 25 institutions in the United States for hosting international students and scholars. It is my hope that Penn State will provide you with a nurturing, supportive environment that will make your transition to our University and this country seamless and enjoyable. Those who are part of our International Programs Office continue to work hard to keep up with regulatory changes and to streamline our own procedures to minimize the disruptions you may experience. Please know that our faculty and staff are here to help you and you should not hesitate to seek their assistance. At Penn State, we have been welcoming international students since 1888, and today we are ranked 16th in the nation for the number of students we attract from abroad. We firmly believe that international education is vitally important to fostering good will and building beneficial relationships with countries across the globe. The next few weeks will be a bit hectic for you as you begin to acclimate yourselves to the campus and to the culture. Please be sure to explore the opportunities and activities this orientation program offers, such as introductions to services and to student organizations on campus. These planned events are organized to provide you with important information, helpful tips, and friendships that will last a lifetime. Other opportunities abound, and you will find that the more you seek, the more you will discover. There are many volunteer opportunities, scholarly pursuits, social situations, and leadership opportunities within the University to keep you busy and help expand your minds. All of these activities will make you more familiar with Penn State and its people, and develop what we hope will be a lifelong love of this University. Again, it is a privilege to have you here. In educating you, Penn State will become a better university. I wish you much success in your time here and hope you truly enjoy your experience at Penn State. |
