More int'l experience is best for young people: US college president

The University of Bridgeport is one of the fastest-growing universities in Connecticut, the US. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

What are the growing trends of Chinese students studying in the US? Is the population getting younger?

There's probably a little difference between our institution and the overall trend in the US. I know that there is a big increase in the number of undergraduate students coming to the US. In fact, not just undergraduate students, but more Chinese parents are sending their children for secondary school.

I have a Chinese friend in Shanghai, and his business is helping place Chinese students in the most prestigious secondary schools. Because, then their ability to study in English is already guaranteed by the time they graduate secondary schools, so they can go to any college they want.

We have seen some growth in undergraduate students, but our strongest point of attraction has been some of the graduate programs, particularly computer science and engineering, and MBA.

What's your purpose in visiting China this time?

The University of Bridgeport has five collaborative academic programs in China, with approvals from the Ministry of Education. Examples include our bachelor's degree program in electrical engineering we offer with Wuhan University of Science and Technology, our bachelor’s in graphic design with Anhui Polytechnic University and our bachelor's in finance with Zhejiang University of Science and Technology.

I try to come at least once a year to continue developing the relationship with the leaders of the Chinese institutions. Constant communication is important.