The prevalence of internationalization in universities today is affecting the cities in which they are located. As the integration of international students adds to the ambiance and culture of a city, the authors argue that mutual participation of universities and communities will influence the development of a city. The aim of this thesis is therefore to explore the collaborations between the two, using Jönköping’s International Business School (JIBS) as a case study. In focusing our attention on international students and their part-time employment, we wish to gain a better understanding of the potential effects a university may have in enhancing a city. Research was conducted in an effort to obtain diverse views and uncover underlying themes that may exist between different stakeholders. Respondents from the following organizations were interviewed to clarify the different perceptions: The University Service’s Career Center, International and Recruitment Offices at JIBS, and Jönköping Municipality.

It was found that networking between JIBS and Jönköping exists, but that the relationship appears to be complex as each party has different dimensions to consider, making true collaboration difficult. However, communication and cooperation could be useful in steering the direction of city development. The presence of international students is seen as influencing the culture, knowledge, and image of the city, but a true integration of these students is lacking. A further contribution through the inclusion of international students in part-time employment is believed to be beneficial to both the city and students, but barriers such as language make this a difficult task. An alliance between JIBS and Jönköping is therefore encouraged, as their combined efforts are crucial in solving these types of issues. We claim that the integration of international students through the creation of part-time jobs or internships demonstrates one way JIBS contributes to the city.

The prevalence of internationalization in universities today is affecting the cities in which they are located. As the integration of international students adds to the ambiance and culture of a city, the authors argue that mutual participation of universities and communities will influence the development of a city. The aim of this thesis is therefore to explore the collaborations between the two, using Jönköping’s International Business School (JIBS) as a case study. In focusing our attention on international students and their part-time employment, we wish to gain a better understanding of the potential effects a university may have in enhancing a city. Research was conducted in an effort to obtain diverse views and uncover underlying themes that may exist between different stakeholders. Respondents from the following organizations were interviewed to clarify the different perceptions: The University Service’s Career Center, International and Recruitment Offices at JIBS, and Jönköping Municipality.

It was found that networking between JIBS and Jönköping exists, but that the relationship appears to be complex as each party has different dimensions to consider, making true collaboration difficult. However, communication and cooperation could be useful in steering the direction of city development. The presence of international students is seen as influencing the culture, knowledge, and image of the city, but a true integration of these students is lacking. A further contribution through the inclusion of international students in part-time employment is believed to be beneficial to both the city and students, but barriers such as language make this a difficult task. An alliance between JIBS and Jönköping is therefore encouraged, as their combined efforts are crucial in solving these types of issues. We claim that the integration of international students through the creation of part-time jobs or internships demonstrates one way JIBS contributes to the city.