Lana Oconnell
International students often face challenges when adjusting to a new place, culture, and language. However, there are many ways they can get involved and contribute to campus life. Most universities have support systems in place, such as orientation programs, academic advising, and counseling services, to help international students navigate these challenges and enhance their campus experience. Additionally, international students can seek job opportunities on campus, join clubs and organizations, and participate in cultural and social activities to connect with their peers and the wider community.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Support services | International student advisers, international student offices, international clubs, orientation programs, welcome packs, online resources, academic advisors, counselors, therapists |
| Financial aid | Scholarships, international student loans, work-study programs, on-campus jobs, part-time jobs |
| Visa | Student visas, work visas, F-1 visas |
| Housing | On-campus housing, shared dorms, off-campus apartments |
| Health | Health insurance, access to health care providers |
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What You'll Learn
Orientation events and workshops
For example, the University of Leeds holds an International Orientation Week, which includes talks, webinars, workshops, tours, and social events. One of their interactive workshops explores ways for students to take care of themselves and each other as they adapt to cultural and lifestyle changes. The University of Michigan's International Center offers pre-departure orientation sessions, which cover topics such as preparing for visa interviews, arranging housing, and other important steps before arriving on campus.
Some universities also provide workshops on practical matters, such as opening a bank account, accessing health services, and understanding the local transport system. King's College London, for instance, offers workshops on working in the UK, opening a UK bank account, accessing the National Health Service (NHS), finding accommodation, and travelling within London.
Additionally, orientation events can include social activities to help international students connect with their peers. The University of Canberra's orientation program includes a boat-and-bus tour, a team race around campus, a football tournament, and an introduction to Australian slang. Similarly, the University of Leeds encourages international students to attend Global Café and a friendly gathering run by the Chaplaincy to meet fellow international students.
Through these orientation events and workshops, international students can gain valuable information, develop a support network, and ease their transition into their new academic and cultural environment.
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Academic advising
International students can seek academic advising on campus to help them navigate the challenges of studying in a new country. Academic advising is a vital support system for international students, who often face unique obstacles and adjustments during their academic journey.
Benefits of Academic Advising
Additional Support
Availability
International students can usually schedule appointments with academic advisers or drop by during office hours. It is recommended that students meet with their advisers at least once a semester or quarter to ensure they stay on course academically and have the necessary support.
Orientation and Social Activities
Many universities offer orientation programs and social activities specifically designed for international students. These events help students transition to life on campus and in a new country. Orientation programs may cover practical topics such as opening a bank account, accessing healthcare services, and understanding cultural differences. Social activities, clubs, and societies also provide international students with opportunities to connect with their peers, pursue interests, and develop a support network during their time at university.
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Counselling services
International students often face challenges when settling into a new culture and educational system, and may struggle with feelings of homesickness and culture shock. Counselling services can play a crucial role in helping international students navigate these difficulties and promote their overall well-being and academic success.
Many universities offer a range of counselling services specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of international students. These services can include peer support groups, drop-in sessions with university counsellors, and counselling referrals in the student's native language. For example, UC Davis offers a Global Ambassador Mentorship Program to help new international students adjust to university life, and their student health centre provides therapy and psychiatry services accessible to international students.
Additionally, international students can benefit from career counselling services, which can assist them in exploring different career paths and understanding the job market in their host country. Organisations like Shorelight offer career counselling to help international students build successful careers globally. They work with partner universities to provide career development services, including workshops, networking events, and internship opportunities.
It is important to note that seeking counselling or mental health support is not a sign of weakness. University counselling services are confidential and easily accessible, and students can request support whenever they feel the need to talk to someone, regardless of whether they have a formal mental health diagnosis. By seeking help early and taking care of their mental health, international students can ensure that their well-being and academic performance are not adversely affected in the long term.
Overall, counselling services play a vital role in supporting international students' mental health and well-being, helping them navigate the challenges of studying in a new country, and empowering them to build successful careers.
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On-campus jobs
There are many different types of on-campus jobs available to international students, including positions in the bookstore, libraries, hospitality services, transportation services, and various campus locations. International students can also work through scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships in their academic departments. To find on-campus jobs, students can check their college's online job board, visit a physical job board on campus, or go to places they might like to work, such as the library or cafeteria, and inquire about openings.
It's important to note that international students must be enrolled in an academic program full-time to qualify for on-campus jobs. Additionally, they can only work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and 40 hours per week during the summer or university breaks. International students on F-1 visas can start working on campus in their first year, and there is no waiting period like there may be with off-campus work.
By working on campus, international students can gain valuable work experience and references for their resumes. They can also benefit from having a job that does not need to be directly related to their field of study, providing more opportunities to explore different areas of interest. Furthermore, working on campus will not affect their eligibility for CPT, pre-completion OPT, or post-completion OPT, and in some cases, students can even work an on-campus job and an off-campus job simultaneously.
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Student clubs and societies
Joining student clubs and societies is a great way for international students to settle into university life and make friends. They can help you connect with people who share your interests and passions, and provide a sense of belonging. With a shared goal, you can bond with others and develop teamwork skills.
There are many different types of clubs and societies to choose from, and you can even start your own! For example, if you're interested in sports, you could join a classic club like Hockey or Soccer, or something more unique like the Parkour Club at the University of Idaho. If you're an art student, you might enjoy the Animation and Film Club, or if you're passionate about dance, there are societies like the Swing Dance Society at Colorado State University.
You can also connect with people from all walks of life and learn about different cultures and religions by joining clubs and societies. For instance, faith-based societies can be a great way to stay in touch with your culture and meet others from similar backgrounds, such as the Muslim Student Association at Colorado State University. International students can also gain support and a sense of community by joining cultural centres and clubs, which many universities offer. These spaces allow international students to connect and celebrate their culture while learning about others.
Additionally, student clubs and societies can provide opportunities for personal growth and development. For instance, you can gain real-world experience through consulting clubs, develop your creative writing skills by joining your university's newspaper or magazine, or even build escape rooms with the USC gaming community. Joining a society can also help you gain confidence and enhance your academic success. Many universities offer resources and support networks specifically for international students, such as the Undocumented Student Resource Center and the International Student Association.
Overall, student clubs and societies offer a fun and fulfilling way to settle into university life, make friends, and develop valuable skills as an international student. They provide a sense of community and support, allowing you to feel more connected to your university and its students.
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Frequently asked questions
Most universities have well-developed support systems in place for international students. These include academic advisers, counselling services, and social events to help you settle in.
Getting involved with a club or society is a great way to meet people and connect with other students. You can also participate in cultural events, trips, and activities organised by your student union or international students' office.
Yes, international students can generally work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and 40 hours per week during academic breaks. Your campus's international student office should be able to explain your work options.
Many colleges and universities offer free mental health support and counselling services for international students. These services can help you deal with cultural adjustment, homesickness, and other challenges you may face.
