Janice Lozano
International students often face challenges in forming friendships with American students at universities in the United States. While some international students report having American friends, others express difficulty in cultivating strong friendships with their American peers. Cultural, linguistic, and regional factors can influence the friendship dynamics between international and American students, leading to varying levels of satisfaction with their social interactions. This topic explores the factors that contribute to the friendship experiences of international students in American universities and the efforts made by both groups to bridge social gaps and foster meaningful connections.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Percentage of American students with at least one international friend | 85% |
| Percentage of American students with more than two international friends | 50% |
| Percentage of international students with more than two American friends | 75% |
| Percentage of international students with no American friends | 10% |
| Percentage of international students with no close American friends (according to a study by Baruch College professor Elisabeth Gareis) | 33%+ |
| Percentage of international students with no strong American friendships (according to Open Doors) | 38% |
| Percentage of surveyed students who believed that Americans were responsible for the lack of friendships | 54% |
| Percentage of surveyed students who blamed their own "internal factors" for the lack of friendships | 46% |
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What You'll Learn
International students' comfort with other international students
International students often experience acculturation stress due to cultural differences. They may miss the companionship of friends and family, home-cooked meals, and the ability to articulate their thoughts in their native language. As a result, many international students seek comfort in other international students.
One international student at Oberlin College reported feeling more comfortable hanging out with other international students than with Americans. They explained that most international students at their school are from Asian countries, and they share similar cultures and ways of living. Another student at the University of Kansas shared that their introverted personality made communication with other international students easier.
International student orientation programs can help students overcome challenges and adjust to their new academic and cultural environments. These programs aim to provide a supportive and inclusive environment, assisting students with essential procedures such as visas, accommodation, and academic advising. Orientation sessions can also help international students connect and form relationships with each other.
Research has shown that social support is crucial for international students' well-being. It helps reduce stress levels and provides a buffer against acculturative stress. International students can stay connected with friends and family through social media, which can be comforting when navigating a new country and language.
While staying within their comfort zone may provide a sense of familiarity and reduced anxiety, it is important for international students to also challenge themselves and step outside their comfort zone. This can involve taking on new opportunities, conquering fears, and building confidence to reach their full potential.
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American students' efforts to get to know international students
Making friends at university can be difficult, especially for international students who are in a foreign country and may be facing language and cultural barriers. While 85% of American students surveyed reported having at least one international friend, only 50% had more than two. In contrast, 75% of international students surveyed had more than two American friends, but 10% had no American friends at all.
There are several ways in which American students can make an effort to get to know international students and make them feel welcome. Firstly, they can participate in events organised by the university's international students' office or society. These events are designed to help international students get to know one another and participate in cultural events and trips. American students can also use these opportunities to learn about different cultures and make international friends. Secondly, American students can be mindful of the challenges that international students face, such as adjusting to a new culture, language barriers, and financial pressures. They can offer support and guidance, whether that is helping international students navigate the education system, providing advice on visa and immigration processes, or simply being a friendly face on campus.
Another way to get to know international students is to live in university accommodation, as many universities require first-year students to live on campus. Living in a college residence hall is a great way for American students to meet international students, learn about their experiences, and form friendships. Additionally, joining clubs and societies that attract a diverse range of students, such as cultural or language-based societies, can help American students connect with international students who may have similar interests or backgrounds.
Finally, American students can be proactive in initiating conversations and interactions with international students. This may involve reaching out to international students in their classes or social circles, showing interest in their culture and experiences, and making a conscious effort to include them in social activities. By doing so, American students can help bridge the gap and create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for their international peers.
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American students' interest in international students' lives
While there is a clear interest from American students in befriending international students, with 85% reporting that they have at least one international friend, there are still some barriers to forming these friendships. Some American students acknowledge that they could do more to get to know international students, with one graduate from the University of California, Berkeley, stating that they didn't make an effort due to differing classes and organizations. Additionally, some international students feel more comfortable with other international students, particularly those from similar cultural backgrounds.
However, many American students express a desire to learn about international students' lives and struggles, and actively make an effort to do so. This is evident in the variety of specialized courses offered by universities to help international students adapt and teach American culture and traditions. American universities also often provide outstanding student support, aiding international students with the complicated immigration process and providing support services to help them succeed.
The diversity of American universities is a significant factor in attracting international students. With approximately half of the best global universities located in the USA, according to U.S. News & World Report, international students have a wide range of top-ranked academic opportunities to choose from. The flexibility to explore interests before committing to a degree program is also advantageous.
Furthermore, American universities offer experiential learning, co-ops, and internships, providing international students with valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to build relationships with potential employers. The presence of international student associations and support staff at international student services offices also demonstrates the interest and support from American universities in helping international students navigate their lives and adjust to American culture.
Overall, while there may be some challenges in forming friendships between American and international students, there is a clear interest from American students in learning about and supporting their international peers, as evidenced by the efforts of universities and the diverse and flexible nature of American higher education.
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International students' English skills
International students often face the challenge of adapting to a new educational system and cultural environment when studying in a foreign country. A common concern for many international students is the language barrier, as they may feel insecure about their English skills and worry that it will affect their ability to make friends.
English is widely regarded as a difficult language to master due to its complex grammar, multiple verb tenses, articles, spelling variations, pronunciation nuances, and idiomatic expressions. International students can find it challenging to navigate these linguistic intricacies, especially when trying to express themselves confidently and connect with others.
However, it is important to note that most international students are not expected to be completely fluent or well-versed in the English language. Universities often provide support to help international students improve their English skills. For example, Newcastle University in the UK offers an In-Sessional English programme with additional classes, lectures, workshops, and tutorials to enhance reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities.
To improve their English skills, international students are often encouraged to interact with native English speakers and immerse themselves in the language. This can include joining clubs, participating in sports, and engaging in social activities beyond their academic pursuits. By actively practising their English, international students can gain confidence in their conversational abilities and expand their social networks.
While there may be challenges in forming friendships between American and international students, with some reporting a sense of separation and difficulty in bridging cultural differences, it is not an insurmountable obstacle. In fact, 85% of American students surveyed reported having at least one international friend, and 50% had more than two international friends. International students also reported having American friends, with 75% having more than two. These findings suggest that despite potential language and cultural barriers, international students can and do form friendships with their American peers.
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The location of the American university
The location of an American university can play a role in the likelihood of international students forming friendships with American students. A study including students from southern and northeastern institutions found that those in the Northeast were less satisfied with their friendship situation than those in the South. Similarly, students in larger metropolitan areas were less happy with their friendships compared to those in smaller towns.
The study also revealed differences in the perceptions of responsibility for the lack of friendships. 54% of surveyed students attributed it to Americans, with some international students feeling that Americans do not make enough effort to get to know them. On the other hand, 46% of students cited internal factors like shyness or language barriers, with a higher percentage of East Asian students blaming their own shortcomings.
Cultural differences and comfort levels may also contribute to the friendship dynamics between international and American students. Some international students feel more comfortable socializing with others from similar cultural backgrounds, particularly those from Asian countries who share a more analogous upbringing. This tendency to stick together in social groups can influence the opportunities for cross-cultural friendships.
While the location of the university can be a factor, other aspects, such as individual personalities and campus culture, also come into play. For example, introverted American students may find it challenging to initiate conversations with international students, potentially impacting their ability to form friendships. Additionally, the presence of diverse organizations and activities on campus can facilitate interactions between international and American students, fostering a more inclusive environment.
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Frequently asked questions
According to a survey, 75% of international students have more than two American friends, while 10% have no American friends. However, a study by Baruch College professor Elisabeth Gareis found that more than one in three international students have no close American friends.
Some international students cited internal factors such as limited language proficiency or shyness as reasons they find it difficult to make friends with Americans. Others mentioned American factors, such as superficiality or a lack of interest in other cultures.
80% of Americans surveyed said that they make an effort to get to know international students or that making friends with international students doesn't require any special effort. However, fewer than half of the international students agreed. Some American students acknowledged that they didn't make an effort to get to know international students because they weren't in their classes or organizations.
Yes, according to Professor Elisabeth Gareis, "A central predictor of overall sojourn satisfaction is international students' contact with the hosting country's nationals, in particular, the meaningful contact found in friendships.” She added that "through friendships, international students have stronger language skills, better academic performance, lower levels of stress and better overall [satisfaction]."
