United States Department of Commerce Bolsters Support for Public and Private Colleges and Universities
Over 586,000 international students in the United States during 2002/03 represented an estimated $12 billion dollars in buying power, making education and related spending the countryÂs fifth largest export category. Under the Imagine USA banner, participating colleges and universities exhibit at highly promoted in-country expos and events around the world to recruit international students to the United States. Now, corporations and organizations can showcase products and services targeted at the student demographic alongside educational institutions.
Seattle, WA (PRWEB) February 23, 2004
The International Consortium of Educational Opportunities Media Ltd., (ICEO Media Ltd.) announced today that the United States Department of Commerce has certified and is fully supporting its unique Imagine USA trade seminars and exhibition to be held in Mexico City this November. Imagine USA will bring together both non-educational U. S. based private enterprise firms and well-established U. S. colleges in this Study USA event to feature a full spectrum of student services that will enhance the experience of all even participants.
"Imagine USA positions ICEO to more fully assist U. S. colleges and universities attract and recruit international students said Don Huber, Program Manager of Certified Trade Fairs at the U. S. Department of Commerce. Mr. Huber continued, ÂThis first-time combination of educational and related industry exhibitors gives all exhibitors a new dimension and opportunity to develop helpful consumer and educational relationships with tens of thousands of international students before they come to the United States for study. The Mexico City kick-off will launch the Imagine USA concept in selected countries around the globe.Â
Over 586,000 international students in the United States during 2002/03 represented an estimated $12 billion dollars in buying power, making education and related spending the countryÂs fifth largest export category. Under the Imagine USA banner, participating colleges and universities exhibit at highly promoted in-country expos and events around the world to recruit international students to the United States. Now, corporations and organizations can showcase products and services targeted at the student demographic alongside educational institutions.
Juanita Ramos, CEO and Founder of ICEO Media Ltd., said, ÂThe change in visas requirements over recent years has made it more difficult for international students to get into the United States. At the same time competitive destinations have ramped up their recruiting programs with public subsidies. With new assistance from private corporations, U. S. colleges and institutions can win back the upper hand. Each event can now showcase the authentic American experience these students expect.Â
Imagine USA events produced by ICEO in 2004 and 2005 are planned for Europe, Asia, India and Latin America. Most notable is the Universitarea event in Mexico City, Mexico during November 2004. Produced in conjunction with the Mexican government and officials from the U. S. Embassy Mexico, Universitarea draws tens of thousands of visitors from Mexico and Central America.
Bryan Larsen the Commercial Attaché of the U. S. Embassy Mexico stated ÂImagine USA at Universitarea is a great opportunity for U. S. colleges, universities and companies to connect with prospective students and influential consumers in Mexico. Blending educational and cultural interests into one event will send the message these kids are looking for - come to America and be a college student.Â
More Information
More information about Imagine USA events is available on the website http://www. imagineusa. us (http://www. imagineusa. us), by calling the Company at 1-206-523-7872 or by sending an e-mail to info@imagineusa. us.
Participation and sponsorship packages for U. S. schools including exhibit space, in-country pre-event promotion, travel arrangements security and other services start at $1,000 per event with discounts available for multiple events.
About ICEO and Affiliates
Working under exclusive certification from the U. S. Department of Commerce, ICEOÂs worldwide activities represent and promote the promise of America. The CompanyÂs core belief is that education is the key driver for the advancement of a peaceful global society and the development of sustainable growth across world markets. ICEOÂs Imagine USA events are produced with support from U. S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration  Washington, DC, Members of the Global Education Board, the United States Embassy Mexico, World Trade Center Tacoma, Paguirigan Branding & Design, jtaG Productions, The Media Store, SGMeyer Group, Lynn Brewer of Ethics Examiners and Enterprise Actions, LLC.