Empowering NU International Students: How to Access Vital University Support Services

After booking a summer flight home, an international student at Northwestern University is now feeling uncertain. She worries about being able to return to the U.S. She is not alone in her concerns. Many students are anxious due to stricter visa rules and potential travel restrictions being considered by the government.

A recent executive order from President Trump demands more thorough checks on visa applicants, especially from countries deemed risky. This has heightened fears among international students, particularly after about 300 visas, most of them student visas, were revoked. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the government can deny visas to individuals whose activities conflict with U.S. interests.

As news of deportations circulates, students at NU express their worry about what might happen if they return home. One student shared that they wish the university would offer more guidance about potential future scenarios. “We want clarity about what to do if things go wrong,” they said. “We just need to know who to contact and what steps to take.”

The university claims its Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS) provides essential support to international students, including advice and resources to navigate immigration issues. They communicate regularly to keep students informed about relevant developments.

Yet, some students feel unsupported. One student expressed frustration with the university’s past advice to seek outside legal help, stating that many turn to each other for support instead. “If we felt backed by NU, we could plan better and feel safe,” they said.

A graduate student, who prefers to remain anonymous, noted that uncertainty surrounding immigration rules has intensified anxiety. They highlighted the unpredictability of the government’s actions, saying that many international students left their home countries to escape conflict or repression, only to find themselves in a precarious situation in the U.S.

This sentiment mirrors a survey conducted by the Institute of International Education, which found that nearly 60% of international students fear possible changes to visa and immigration policies. Students who have always defended their rights now feel even more vulnerable, with the constant threat of major policy shifts hanging over them.

As discussions about potential travel bans continue, like the ones proposed for countries such as Iran and Syria, international students remain on edge. They seek communication and support from their universities to help navigate this challenging environment.

In these times of uncertainty, it’s essential for universities to listen to their international communities. The anxiety students face today reminds us of the importance of clarity and support in achieving academic freedom and safety in foreign lands.

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