Students without borders? migratory decision-making among international graduate students in the U.S.

This chapter explores the multiple facets of migratory decision-making among international graduate students in the US, and brings forth new understandings of the relationship between international students' migratory intentions and the processes of "brain drain," "brain gain" and "brain circulation." The students' decision to come to the US and their post-graduation aspirations, appeared to be shaped in highly similar contexts characterized by a diversity of factors falling within the larger categories of the following: the international context surrounding students' daily life and education; social ties; the influence of states and state institutions; and the role of personal and professional interests and aspirations. The chapter discusses these factors in shaping both students' initial intentions and their plans after graduation. The students expressed a clear sense of national borders in their aspirations; the dilemma between returning to their home countries and staying within the geographical boundaries of the US.