DEAN'S CORNER

Perhaps the most unique experience our students have at ODU Engineering is the genuinely global feel of our College. In a time when many public universities are clamoring for international student attention, ODU Engineering champions our astounding student diversity. Students come to the Batten College of Engineering and Technology from nations all over the world, including China, Germany, India, Egypt and Turkey, to study alongside American counterparts.

A shining example of our international appeal is our long-standing higher education agreement with the Turkish Air Force Academy (TAFA). This agreement calls for the best and brightest TAFA students to continue their graduate education by coming to the Batten College for that study. The first group of TAFA students came in 2004 and there are now about 60 graduates of ODU who are leaders in the Turkish Air Force.

The TAFA students have, over the past eight years, shone among their engineering colleagues. Such international students infuse fresh and stimulating ideas. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, all our students benefit when given the opportunity to study with colleagues from other countries. What is more, the relationships garnered with the students throughout their educational journeys here find substantial weight in the students' lives and ours.

ODU Engineering is made stronger by every one of our students. We are grateful to count so many international students among our diverse student body. Though changing societal needs, economic trends, and new technological advances continue to transform the face of education, ODU Engineering can pride itself in helping our students build a close support system. No matter their domestic background, our students are backed by a dedicated faculty and staffs so they can successfully navigate their college experience and best meet their academic and professional goals.