May 18, 2016
On May 17, 2016 a meeting of the working group “Support for expatriates” was held at NUST MISiS. During the meeting, the participants got acquainted with the experience of the University, and the work being carried out at the University to attract, support, and integrate employees of the university from abroad.The model of support for in-coming international specialists consists of five basic principles:
- The involvement of international specialists in day-to-day functioning
- Develop a “question-answer” system for those, who seeking work at the University
- Support the development of the visa system
- The system to assist international employees to adapt living in a new country
- Distribution of information for international specialists
For a successful and rapid integration for international specialists a base of frequently encountered questions has been collected translated into English, concerning legal aspects of living in Russia – taxes, finance, insurance, visas, etc. The University provides comprehensive support in obtaining the necessary visa documents.
All foreign experts involved in lectures and seminars, actively participate in popular science interdisciplinary programs such as the “Christmas Lectures” and others.
An important role in the successful adaptation of foreigners and the internationalization of the university environment as a whole, providing English-language media throughout campus.
One of the centers of attraction for the English-speaking employees has become the office of academic writing. Created to help university researchers develop their skills of written and oral scientific communication in English. Also the center helps expatriates to feel involved in university life.
The goal is to help PhD students, researchers and faculty to become proficient, independent writers who can function effectively in the wider academic and policy community. The Center provides courses in academic writing that aim to help students develop and present their ideas effectively according to the needs of their discipline.
The Academic Writing University Office, also functions as an informal intercultural center, where international students and faculty can share their language skills as well as share experiences with colleagues.
Many great ideas have been exchanged already and the outlook for the future is promising.