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Representatives from Baker College Center for Graduate Studies recently traveled to Beijing, China. According to Scott P. Overmyer, Ph.D., Baker College Center for Graduate Studies MSIS program director, the initial purpose of the trip was to recruit one or two cohorts of 12 students each for Baker’s Master of Science in Information (MSIS) program. While there, Overmyer and Dr. Na Li, a full-time Baker instructor originally from mainland China, also introduced students to Baker’s other graduate, undergraduate and online programs.

“This trip exceeded all expectations,” said Overmyer. “We met with many potential new students and their parents, visited Peking University and had discussions about collaboration with representatives from its information sciences department, connected with educational recruiting agents in China, and collected a long list of names of possible future Baker students.”

Part of the trip agenda included the China Education Expo 2009. Sponsored by the China Education Association for International Exchange, the Expo attracts more than 50,000 students each year. The Baker College booth was the perfect venue to meet with many potential students, said Overmyer.

“Through Na’s first-hand experience and understanding of the Chinese educational market, we were well-positioned and equipped to cater to the students and engage them in one-on-one conversations,” said Overmyer. “We were able to convey our flexibility and all the many advantages of a Baker education. International students may come to the U.S. to study, remain in China, or use a combination of arrangements, since the programs we offer are all online.”

Why did Baker College choose China as its first international recruiting trip?

“There are a number of reasons,” said Overmyer. “First, China is a huge market with limitless opportunities. Second, American universities and colleges have a good reputation among the Chinese, and Baker College is already approved by the Chinese government to be represented in China. Third, Na was able to travel to China beforehand to lay the groundwork for our presence at the conference, arrange meetings at Chinese universities and act as an interpreter when necessary. Her presence was invaluable.”