Colleges of Distinction recognized Quinnipiac's commitment to exceptional support to international students. 

Director of International Student Services Sarah Driscoll said she believes that this recognition is a reflection of Quinnipiac’s comprehensive support system that includes the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS), the Learning Commons, Counseling and Mental Health Services and countless other areas.

Quinnipiac is celebrated for recognizing the unique challenges that international students face and equipping these students with the resources and skills to succeed both academically and socially.

“We want our international students to not only feel supported with the necessary resources to thrive but also to feel valued and celebrated for the diverse perspectives and experiences that they contribute to our campus community,” said Driscoll. “Quinnipiac is deeply enriched by our international students’ presence and we want them to feel like Quinnipiac is their second home throughout their academic journey and beyond.”

Quinnipiac offers a wide range of academic programs with the intention to provide international students with the knowledge, skills and experience to pursue their dream careers.

“Our emphasis on experiential learning gives students real-world skills through internships, projects and research that will make them stand out from others,” she said. “There are countless ways to get involved on campus to make connections, such as participating in student clubs and organizations, attending campus events, taking advantage of health and wellness classes or even going on excursions to explore local attractions and experience U.S. culture. Quinnipiac’s inclusive environment, along with our strong focus on global citizenship, fosters cultural exchange and helps international students feel at home while pursuing their educational and professional goals.”

Within the last five years, Quinnipiac has made significant strides toward enhancing global recruitment efforts, both undergraduate and graduate international student admissions.

Through the admissions process, Quinnipiac is featured as an outstanding destination for international students through various scholarships, funding for international student workers and STEM-designated academic programs that enable international students to be eligible for up to three years of Optional Practical Training work authorization in the U.S. after graduation.

Additionally, the university has expanded its systems and support services such as the International Student and Scholar Portal database to streamline immigration processes and requests, a new off-campus shuttle route supporting students living off-campus and a new comprehensive website for international students.

The Office of International Students and Scholars has also increased its programs and events to support international students as they assimilate into the Bobcat community.

This includes the OISS Winter Closet, an expansion of the Global Partners peer-mentorship program, the introduction of the inaugural International Student Advisory Board and more workshops covering topics such as U.S. culture, work authorizations and practicalities like obtaining a driver’s license and financial literacy in the U.S.

In the fall, the Office of International Students and Scholars also launched a new Career-Readiness Series for international students in partnership with the Career and Experiential Learning Lab.

Driscoll emphasized the impact that Quinnipiac’s international students have on creating a dynamic, vibrant campus atmosphere that celebrates diversity and encourages mutual learning and growth.  

“Our international students are vital members of our campus community,” said Driscoll. “They make invaluable contributions to Quinnipiac by bringing diverse perspectives, cultural experiences and global awareness that enrich the academic and social environment for everyone. Their presence broadens the horizons of domestic students, preparing them to engage in a multicultural world and succeed in an interconnected global economy.”

The international student community at Quinnipiac is comprised of 205 international students, representing 42 different countries. The international student community at Quinnipiac has become an integral part of the university culture. 

“Through cultural events, student organizations and informal interactions, international students help foster a more inclusive and globally-minded campus community at Quinnipiac," she said. “International students at Quinnipiac are highly involved in leadership positions, such as being resident assistants, orientation leaders, global partners, student-athletes and members of student organizations. Their invaluable contributions bring diverse perspectives, cultural experiences and global awareness that enrich the academic and social environment for everyone.”