Deep dive into internationalisation and international student mobility (ISM) through the eyes of international office rofessionals (IPs)

Abstract

This study aims to reveal the problems experienced by international office professionals (IPs) in the mobility dimension of internationalisation. It is believed that the study will contribute to the internationalisation of higher education in Türkiye with the experiences of practitioners. Case study design is employed. Interviews were conducted with the voluntary IPs. This research explores five key themes in the context of International Offices (IOs) within Turkish universities. The first theme examines IO management, highlighting administrative structure complexities and non-uniform personnel titles. The absence of a well-defined administrative framework often leaves IOs with ambiguous roles, contributing to uncertainty within the field. The second theme, workload, reveals the diversity of tasks handled by International Office Professionals (IPs), extending beyond their job descriptions. These tasks include official correspondence, mobility project management, and even translation services. The lack of clear job descriptions and institutional structures results in role ambiguity. The third theme delves into student-related challenges, encompassing issues from language proficiency to student irresponsibility. IOs struggle to enforce disciplinary measures and face grant-related complications. The fourth theme uncovers academic and institutional problems, including language barriers and residence permit complexities. Finally, the fifth theme examines the role of academic unit coordinators and reveals the reluctance and poor support of many of them to assist mobility processes. These findings emphasize the need for clearer administrative structures, standardized job descriptions, and enhanced support systems to optimize IO operations and internationalization efforts in Turkish universities.