International students transitioning to US higher education can face a number of challenges due to language limitations and cultural barriers. As a result, it is important to ensure that students feel supported both academically and socially, which will allow them to quickly assimilate to campus life. Failure to address these basic needs can result in poor academic outcomes and low retention. This session reports on findings from a needs assessment conducted at PSU to (a) assess the degree that PSU meets the needs of its international students and (b) identify areas where PSU can better support its international students. A total of 53 students and 57 faculty/staff participated in the study. Data collection measures included student and faculty/staff surveys, focus group interviews with undergraduate and graduate international students, and faculty/staff interviews.
