Tennessee foreign exchange programs worry about impact of student visa revocations

Foreign exchange programs in Tennessee are worried that the Trump administration’s decision to revoke more than 1,000 student visas could have a chilling effect on students looking to travel to the U.S.

There are about 10,000 international students in Tennessee colleges and universities, according to the Higher Ed Immigration Portal. But there are also high school students that come here via foreign exchange programs that could be affected by Trump policies.

The AFS Intercultural Program currently has more than 700 international students signed up to begin their studies in the U.S. this Fall. But, AFS’s volunteer public relations chair for its southeastern team, Barbara Willis, told WPLN News that she’s worried this number will shrink as their departure date draws closer.

“Somehow in the back of my mind, I’m thinking that getting closer to when they’re coming, we may have some people who will drop out,” she said. “Heaven only knows what’s going to happen between now and getting here at the end of August and first of September.”

Uncertain climate for international students

The U.S. State Department told NPR that, when revoking visas, the department looks at arrests, criminal convictions and other conduct “inconsistent with visa classification.” But many students told NPR that their visas were cancelled without explanation — leaving them facing unexpected and sudden deportation.

Willis’ children studied abroad, and she said she can’t imagine the fears that some families might have about their kids’ visas being suddenly revoked — forcing them to buy an expensive international flight home on short notice.

About 1,700 students and recent graduates have had their legal status changed by the U.S. State Department, according to an Inside Higher Ed analysis. Twenty-five of them were studying in Tennessee. Ten were studying at Christian Brothers University, six students from Middle Tennessee State University, five from University of Memphis, and four from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville.

‘Nashville wants you here’

Sarah Lingo, executive director of the exchange program Sister Cities of Nashville told WPLN that she’s concerned about changing immigration policies but hasn’t seen any effects yet. She said she’s staying updated by continuously communicating with the U.S. State Department and speaking with those who are traveling in and out of the country.

Both Lingo and Willis have support staff to help students with any issues that arise. They also both stress the benefits that students gain from studying abroad — including greater cultural awareness, increased confidence, and adaptability.

Sister Cities of Nashville hosts high school students for two-weeks at a time. Lingo says her goal is to increase opportunities for students who may not be able to afford to travel and she has a message for foreign students considering a move to Tennessee:

“We want you here. Nashville wants you here,” she said. “We’re excited for you to visit.”