Boost in international students

Photo: Contributed

Vernon’s school district is getting a financial boost from a spike in international students studying in the area this year.

According to the district principal of the Vernon International Student Program, Judy Hershman, 2014 enrolment numbers are way up when compared with the September 2013 enrolment.

“It is growing and thriving and we have seen a healthy increase in numbers,” says Hershman who adds that student enrolment has grown from 150 last year to 220 students this year.

She attributes the increase in students to the district now having two dedicated recruiters, focused on bringing in students from overseas.

International students are welcomed into Vernon, and Canada for that matter, as they bring money and provide several positive economic spin-offs.

For any international student a year of study in Vernon costs $12,600, which they pay in addition to their home-stay costs, medical etc. Hershman says the total package price for a school year in Vernon, all inclusive, is $22,500. With 250 international students this year, the Vernon economy is reaping an additional $5.6 million.

“The first benefit is to the school district, as of course international programs generate revenue that we wouldn't otherwise have, and that revenue benefits Canadian students,” explains Hershman who notes that in Vernon a large portion of the money raised from the international program goes straight into the technology program.

“In addition to that, our students add to the economy in their spending patterns. They eat in restaurants, the buy supplies in local stores, so that is a definite benefit.”

Hershman also feels international students benefit local kids who gain international friendships, contacts and experiences.

“This enables students to become friends with kids from other countries and cultures, to work with them in classrooms elbow to elbow, to help them learn the language and sometimes develop life-long friendships,” says Hershman. “Often we hear stories, and this is quite common, that our Canadian kids are going off to Mexico to visit their friend or host-brother. Or, they are being welcomed in China or in Spain. It works both ways.”

She also says international students add a good dimension in the classroom where the visiting student may bring their own experiences and opinions surrounding culture, history and world events.

Hershman does add that every good international program is based on a good home-stay program and great home-stay parents, something she says Vernon boasts.

“We have very good families who open their homes and their hearts to care for an international student, and provide that emotional support which is a key part of the program,” notes Hershman who adds that they are always looking for more host families. Host families are funded $750/month to cover the costs of housing the student, which is intended to cover room and board and food.

She says of the 250 kids this year, 16 different countries are represented, with the majority visiting from China, Mexico, Brazil and Korea.

“I think our kids have a great time, I think they have a fabulous experience. They love Canada, they love the hospitality that Vernon shows to them. Our schools are very welcoming and I think that all adds up to a very positive experience,” adds Hershman. 

For more information on the program or becoming a home-stay family check out their website here.