International students welcomed at Harper

Harper College on Tuesday welcomed more than 100 international students at an on-campus reception.

The idea was to thank the group for choosing Harper and recognize how the diverse perspectives they bring to the Palatine college can enrich other students' learning experience.

Across the nation, community colleges have seen a 22 percent jump in international student enrollment since 1999.

Harper is no exception. Its enrollment has risen from 55 international students in fall 2004. Enrollment this spring is up to 105 students representing 30 countries.

They pay the full tuition of $407 per credit hour. According to the school, most live with local friends or family.

"International students at community college is not an oxymoron," Eric Bohman of Harper's English as a Second Language Department said in a statement. He completed his doctorate on the subject.

"In fact, international students are really needed on campuses like ours. They strengthen our culture as we strive to be more global, and we all benefit."