The effects of networks on U.S. institution selection by foreign doctoral students in science and engineering

The United States has been a very attractive destination for foreign Science and Engineering (S&E) graduate students and postdoctoral scholars for a considerable period of time. Several studies have documented significant contributions of foreign students and foreign scientists in S&E. These contributions in turn foster economic development. Recent studies suggest, however, that the U.S. is losing its dominance in attracting foreign talent. Increased competition outside the U.S. contributes to the change as do changes in visa regulations.;Despite the important role of foreign doctoral students in the U.S., relatively little is known about factors influencing their decision to attend an institution. One factor that is rarely explored is the effect of networks on institution selection. Through their networks, students learn about application procedures, studying at an institution, housing opportunities, general culture and people. In doing this, they draw both on the experience of the alumni as well as the support of current students and faculty at their target institution. Thus, networks can play an important role in where foreign doctoral students actually end up studying.;This study aims to provide both qualitative and quantitative information about the role networks play in foreign doctoral students' institution selection. This three-part study utilizes different methodologies: (1) focus group interviews conducted with Turkish doctoral students at the Georgia Institute of Technology; (2) a web study of research laboratories in science and engineering; and (3) the estimation of Random Utility Model (RUM) of institution selection. These three components build on each other, in addition to the individual contributions that they make. Together they provide an in-depth and comprehensive analysis of the role of networks.;The results from guided focus group interviews indicate that students, alumni, faculty and local community of the same nationality influence institution choice in various ways. Such as, students provide information about the programs, and alumni introduce applicants to their former professors. Further, in the web study of research laboratories, we find strong evidence that labs that are directed by foreign-born faculty are more likely to be populated by students from the same country of origin than are labs that are directed by native faculty. These results point to the critical role foreign-born lab directors play and support the result from the focus group interviews that the presence of compatriots in their labs creates a comfortable lab environment that makes communication and information exchange easier.;The last analysis tests the effects of networks on foreign students' institution selection, using a Random Utility Model (RUM). We find a strong and significant relationship between the number of existing students from a country of origin at an institution and the probability of attending that institution for potential applicants from the same country of origin. The relationship is non linear, increasing at a decreasing rate. Also, in some of the models there is evidence that alumni and faculty from the same origin also play a role in student choice.;The results of this study have several policy implications. First, the strong network effect found raises the issue of the degree of integration of foreign doctoral students at an institution. Clearly, foreign students cluster in certain institutions. Second, this study provides insight about the possible "mismatch" between the students and institutions.;Specifically, foreign doctoral students could choose to attend institutions, not because these institutions are the best match given their qualifications, but because they provide them with the highest level of psychosocial support. Third, the findings suggest that foreign born faculty play a role in generating new enrollments from their home country as well as in staffing labs, as the web study suggests. Finally, this study draws attention to issues related to staying in the country after graduation.