Starting university far from home can be exciting and overwhelming. It’s a major life change, if not the biggest thus far. For many international students, it’s their very first time navigating life on their own in a completely new environment. In moments like these, having a community makes all the difference. They offer comfort, connection, and a sense of belonging.
At Wright State University, this sense of community is built into every part of campus life, from classrooms and clubs to cultural celebrations and support services.
Wright State University is located in Dayton, Ohio — a city known for innovation and rich history. With over 11,000 students, the university offers over 180 degree programs across six colleges, a medical school, and a branch campus in Celina, Ohio. Named after aviation pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright, the university continues to reflect their spirit of discovery and progress.
In the 2025 World University Rankings for International Students by Study Abroad, a leading provider of resources for international students, Wright State is recognised among the top 7% of universities globally.
“This recognition celebrates Wright State’s commitment to international education, our institution’s reputation beyond our borders, and the positive experience international students have at our campus,” says Michelle Streeter-Ferrari, director of the University Center for International Education (UCIE).
International students at Wright State University are celebrated, valued, and empowered to thrive. Source: Wright State University
International students at Wright State University are celebrated, valued, and empowered to thrive. Source: Wright State University
Support from day one until graduation and beyond
Rankings tell you a lot about a university, but what really sets it apart is the care and attention given to student success.
The UCIE plays a central role in that experience. It’s a hub for connection, learning, and support, with a dedicated team offering everything from visa and immigration services to personal support, which starts from day one. Wright State organises airport pickups and orientation sessions, and helps students settle into housing that suits their specific needs. These efforts may seem simple, but they go a long way during a time of transition.
“We support our international students through every stage of their journey, from the moment they are admitted, to their arrival on campus, and well beyond,” says Divya Blakemore, Assistant Director, International Education & Programming. “We provide holistic support that includes cultural, academic, professional, and personal guidance to ensure they thrive. Our goal is to be their home away from home, and in return, their diverse perspectives and experiences enrich the entire Wright State community.”
Wright State’s mid-sized campus means you will never be lost in a sea of faces. Instead, you’ll be treated as individuals with unique stories and goals. Academic support services, cultural events, and student organisations make it easy to form friendships and find a sense of purpose.
Even the campus layout was designed to make things more comfortable for international students, especially in winter. Wright State’s two-mile tunnel system connects 23 of 24 buildings, offering students a warm way to move between classes during Ohio’s colder months.
At Wright State University, students are key members of a tight-knit community, receiving academic support, cultural enrichment, and social integration opportunities throughout their time. Source: Wright State University
At Wright State University, students are key members of a tight-knit community, receiving academic support, cultural enrichment, and social integration opportunities throughout their time. Source: Wright State University
Engaging and empowering experiences
Community at Wright State is built through shared experiences. Events like the Fun Friday Hangout allow you to connect with peers while learning about different cultures over snacks and conversation. Lunchtime student leader conversations bring students together to support student organizations and activities. The annual Wright State cultural festivals such as the Festival of Lights, Dashain Festival, African Student Night, Asian New Year, and the Vietnamese Heritage Night bring the Dayton community and students together to celebrate global diversity.
Academic and professional development are just as important here. Wright State provides career resources that cater to international students’ specific needs. Each year, the Annual Spring Career and Internship Fair brings about 70 employers to campus — including businesses, nonprofits, and government organisations — offering students opportunities to build experience and find jobs. These internships often lead to full-time roles after graduation, helping students launch their careers in the US.
Navigating employment as an international student can be complicated, but Wright State eases the process. The UCIE helps with immigration paperwork for internships and post-graduation work authorisation — sometimes up to three years, depending on the field of study. This ensures students are job-ready and employers have what they need to hire them confidently. Wright State has career consultants in different colleges across the campus too. They help with everything from writing resumes and cover letters to preparing for interviews – highly useful for those new to the US job market.
The results speak for themselves. In the 2024 Global 2000 list by the Centre for World University Rankings, Wright State ranks in the top 6.4% worldwide. That’s due, in no small part, to the outcomes students achieve with the guidance, support, and a community invested in their success.
“The support of caring faculty and staff empowers me to pursue my studies with determination,” says Yili, a student pursuing a master’s degree in educational leadership. “Even though I am thousands of miles away from home, their warmth and kindness have made this place feel like a home away from home.”
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