International Students Thrive in UW-ISyE’s VISP

While “study abroad” is a familiar concept to most U.S. students, what about international students seeking a short-term academic experience in the United States? Fortunately, the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a powerful solution.

Since 2012, UW-Madison’s Visiting International Student Program (VISP) has been welcoming students from across the globe for short-term, non-degree study on the Madison campus. To cater to specific academic interests, various departments have developed Thematic VISP programs offering a more focused experience than the traditional option. The UW-Madison Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (UW-ISyE) is proud to host one of these programs.

The Thematic VISP program at UW-ISyE is currently led by Associate Professor Hantang Qin. For him, the program is a vital mechanism for integrating industrial engineering concepts and knowledge to create meaningful change globally.

“By attracting highly motivated students from around the world, VISP-ISyE fosters a global learning environment that reflects the university’s commitment to international engagement,” says Professor Qin. “Their participation strengthens the department’s global reputation as a leader in industrial engineering while expanding long-term partnerships with international universities.”

When students return to their home countries, they carry not only specialized technical expertise but also the enduring belief of the Wisconsin Idea: that education should influence people’s lives beyond the boundaries of the classroom.

The UW-ISyE VISP program often serves as a significant stepping stone for students pursuing advanced academic careers.

Wei Li, originally from Foshan, Guangdong, China, first came to Madison in spring of 2023 as a VISP student. After completing his bachelor’s degree at his home institution, he returned to Madison in September 2024 for a master’s degree. His trajectory didn’t stop there; he has since been admitted to the department’s PhD program and plans to dedicate his professional career to research and teaching in industrial and systems engineering.

Li reflects on the experience: “The VISP program provided me with an opportunity to experience different cultures and education systems by communicating with the faculties, classmates, and friends here.”

This sentiment highlights how the program offers not only a transformative academic experience but also a crucial cultural immersion opportunity. The department, in collaboration with the UW-Madison VISP office, supports participants with:

• Networking opportunities
• Professional development workshops
• Academic seminars

Participants are also immersed in the rich experience of living in Madison, a city consistently ranked among the best and safest places to live in the U.S.

The UW-ISyE Thematic VISP program is a powerful embodiment of the department’s commitment to global collaboration and academic excellence. By welcoming outstanding students like Wei Li, the program reinforces UW-ISyE’s position at the forefront of international industrial engineering education, ensuring that the impact of our work resonates around the world.