Universities' Role In Helping International Students Settle

International students are a vital part of university life, bringing diverse perspectives and enriching the educational experience for all. However, these students often face challenges such as adapting to new cultures, education systems, and lifestyles. With increasing competition from other countries offering attractive scholarships and lower fees, it is crucial for universities to create a welcoming environment that makes international students feel at home. This paragraph will explore some of the ways universities can achieve this, from pre-arrival support to fostering social connections, ensuring these students have a positive and memorable experience.

Orientation activities and pre-arrival support

Pre-Arrival Support:

• Buddy Programme: Create a mentorship programme by matching current international students with new international students from the same country, if possible. This way, new students can ask questions and learn about the lifestyle, accommodation, and other practicalities from a student perspective before they arrive.
• Pre-Arrival Course: Develop a mandatory online course for students covering essential information, such as a checklist of things to do before arrival, an introduction to the local culture, finding accommodation, and other resources to ensure students are well-prepared.
• Airport Pick-up: Arrange for student mentors or university staff to greet international students at the airport and help them navigate their first day in the new country.
• University Accommodation: If students opt for university residence, ensure bedding is provided, and work with the dining hall to create a diverse food menu that accommodates different dietary needs and raises awareness of global cuisines.

Orientation Week:

• Getting Started: Dedicate the first week as an orientation week for all new students, where mentors can assist international students in navigating practical aspects of living in a new country, such as setting up phone and internet services, opening bank accounts, and familiarising themselves with nearby attractions.
• Transit System Navigation: Help students understand how to use the local public transportation system, including any discounts or passes available for students.
• Coffee Chats: Organise informal coffee chats for international students to connect and discuss their experiences and challenges. This is especially beneficial for students who feel shy about asking for help.
• Community Field Trips: Arrange excursions to local attractions and points of interest. This helps students familiarise themselves with their new surroundings and provides opportunities to bond with their peers.

By offering comprehensive pre-arrival and orientation support, universities can significantly contribute to the well-being and satisfaction of their international students, making them feel welcomed and valued from the very beginning of their academic journey.

Social connections and community

Social connections and a sense of community are vital for international students to feel at home. Universities can facilitate this in several ways. Firstly, they can encourage students to get to know each other beyond their nationalities. This can be achieved by creating opportunities for students to interact and connect based on shared interests, hobbies, and activities, rather than solely focusing on cultural differences. For instance, recommending relevant student clubs or societies can help international students find like-minded peers with similar passions.

Additionally, universities can foster a welcoming atmosphere by organising social events, coffee mornings, or informal gatherings where students can interact in a relaxed setting. These events can be themed around cultural exchange, such as international food festivals or cultural performance nights, providing a platform for international students to share their traditions and customs with others.

Another effective strategy is to establish buddy or mentorship programmes that pair international students with local students or those from other countries. These programmes enable international students to receive support and guidance from peers who have already navigated the challenges of settling into a new country and university. Buddies can offer practical advice, introduce them to others, and help them feel less isolated during their transition period.

Furthermore, universities can promote social connections by creating dedicated spaces for international students to interact and seek assistance. A global community centre, for instance, can serve as a hub for cultural exchange, social events, and access to international student counsellors. This dedicated space allows international students to find a sense of belonging and build a support network within the wider university community.

Finally, universities can encourage domestic students to actively engage with and welcome their international peers. This may involve educating local students about the benefits of a multicultural campus and organising intercultural events or activities that bring students from diverse backgrounds together. By fostering an inclusive and curious mindset, universities can help domestic and international students form meaningful connections and develop a deeper understanding of each other's cultures.

Training for staff and students

Training for Staff:

• Universities should offer training to staff members who interact with international students regularly. This training should focus on raising awareness of different cultural norms and practices, enabling staff to provide better support and create a comfortable environment for international students.
• Staff training should address potential cultural biases that teachers may unknowingly possess. Training on diversity, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity can help create a more welcoming atmosphere for international students.
• It is important to train staff about potential cultural differences and how they may impact the student experience and learning. This includes understanding different preferences, communication styles, and assumptions about the role of teachers and students.
• Training programmes can also focus on practical aspects, such as visa advice, orientation during the start of the programme, and academic counselling. This ensures that staff are equipped to guide international students through the unique challenges they may face.

Training for Students:

• Peer mentorship or buddy programmes can be extremely beneficial for international students. Domestic students who participate in these programmes can receive training on cultural sensitivity, effective communication, and the specific challenges faced by international students.
• Training for domestic students can emphasise the importance of getting to know international students beyond their country of origin. Encouraging conversations about interests, hobbies, and shared experiences can foster deeper connections and a sense of belonging for international students.
• Training sessions or workshops can be organised to educate domestic students about the challenges of adapting to a new education system, language barriers, and cultural differences. This will help create a supportive environment where international students feel understood and valued.
• Domestic students can also benefit from training on cultural diversity and inclusivity, helping them embrace and celebrate the presence of international students on campus. This can include activities that promote intercultural understanding and sensitivity.

Accommodation and dining

University Accommodation

• Pre-Arrival Support: Universities can assist international students in finding suitable accommodation before their arrival. This can be done through mentorship programs or buddy schemes, where current international students provide insights and guidance on the local housing market, student residences, and any cultural nuances related to finding a place to live.
• University Residence Amenities: For students living in university residences, the administration can offer additional services to make them feel more at home. This may include providing bedding for their dorms at an additional cost, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment, and ensuring that cultural and religious needs are considered.
• Global Residence Halls: Some universities, like Leeds University, offer dedicated global residence halls where international and domestic students live together. This promotes cultural exchange and helps international students feel more connected to their peers.
• Cost Considerations: Recognising that international students may face financial constraints, universities can explore options to make university accommodation more affordable. This could involve offering discounted rates or providing assistance in finding off-campus housing options that fit their budget.

Dining Services

• Diverse Food Options: Universities can work with their dining hall teams to create diverse and inclusive menus that accommodate a range of dietary needs and cultural preferences. This may include offering a variety of cuisines, religious dietary options (such as halal or kosher meals), and vegetarian or vegan choices.
• Global Cuisine Events: Organising themed dining events or international food festivals can expose all students to different cuisines and cultures. These events can be educational and celebratory, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for global diversity.
• Cultural Awareness: Dining services staff can benefit from cultural awareness training to better understand the needs and preferences of international students. This includes knowledge of dietary restrictions, religious observances, and cultural food practices to ensure that all students feel respected and valued.
• Cooking Workshops: Universities can offer cooking workshops or demonstrations to help international students learn about local ingredients and cooking techniques. Additionally, these workshops can be a platform for international students to share their traditional dishes and culinary heritage with others.

By prioritising the comfort and well-being of international students in accommodation and dining, universities can create an inclusive and welcoming environment that makes these students feel valued members of the university community.

Post-graduation support

Career Support

Universities can offer career guidance and support to international students for a certain period after graduation, especially if they choose to remain in the host country to work. This can include services such as resume and cover letter preparation, interview skills training, and even job placement assistance. This helps students feel supported and makes their transition to the working world smoother.

Alumni Networks

Universities can encourage international students to stay connected with the university and their peers even after graduation by creating strong alumni networks. This can be done through alumni associations, networking events, and online platforms. Staying connected with their alma mater and fellow graduates can provide a sense of community and support, especially for those who may be far from home.

Continued Cultural Support

Recognising that adjusting to a new culture can take time, universities can offer ongoing cultural support to international students even after they graduate. This can include continued language training, cultural integration workshops, and social events that celebrate diversity. Such initiatives can help international students feel more at home in their adopted country and navigate any cultural challenges they may face.

Mentorship Programmes

Universities can establish mentorship programmes that pair current students with alumni, including international graduates. This way, international students who have already transitioned into the working world in the host country can guide and support new graduates, sharing their experiences and offering advice on navigating cultural and professional challenges.

Access to Resources

Universities can continue to provide international graduates with access to certain resources and facilities, such as libraries, computer labs, and even counselling services. This can be especially beneficial for those who may be facing challenges in their new lives and careers. By offering these resources, universities reinforce a sense of belonging and support for their international alumni.

By implementing these initiatives and recognising the unique needs of international students, universities can create a supportive environment that extends beyond graduation. This not only enhances the student experience but also fosters a sense of community and connection, helping international students truly feel at home.

Frequently asked questions