by
Farland D. Valera, MAED
ABSTRACT
This research analyzed the situation of international students of the University of Baguio (UB) in terms of how they have chosen UB and the City as school and place of study, respectively. It likewise unravelled the problems that international students encounter during their transition into the University community. The study was conducted during the second semester of academic year 2008-2009 until the summer term of 2009. The population consisted of international students enrolled in the undergraduate programs of UB. The respondents identified three main factors that led them to select Baguio as a place of study, namely: (1) Baguio’s climatic conditions; (2) their perception that Baguio’s schools are excellent; and (3) recommendations from their friends. Further, the findings reveal that they chose UB because they are convinced, largely owing to their perception that UB is an excellent school, that it can help them acquire the education that they need. Findings show that the top three very serious problems they face are: (1) differences between the local lifestyle and the lifestyle the international students grew up with; (2) lack of programs that address issues pertaining to the needs of international students; and (3) lack of programs that involve the international students. The top three problems surfaced as serious include (1) lack of opportunities to mingle with other international students; (2) shyness; and (3) English ability affects academic performance.
Source: UB Research Journal, Vol. XXXIII, No. 1, January – June 2009
