Lori Meadows
International students often face challenges when it comes to accessing familiar and affordable food in their host countries. Food plays a crucial role in easing homesickness, increasing social interaction, and improving overall well-being. Schools and host families can support international students by providing a variety of food options that cater to different cultural and religious needs. This may include offering international cuisines, accommodating dietary restrictions, and encouraging social activities centred around food, such as baking or cultural meal nights. Additionally, international students may benefit from guidance on budgeting and finding affordable dining options near their colleges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Food choices | Rice, instant noodles, vegetables, family favourites |
| Purpose | Ease homesickness, increase social interaction, improve well-being |
| Student involvement | Input in menu selection, cooking, shopping |
| Familiarity | Familiar food choices, preparation methods |
| Culture | Exposure to new culture, sharing experiences |
| Financial considerations | Dining out expenses, food affordability |
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What You'll Learn
Homesickness and comfort food
Food and memories are closely linked, and it's no surprise that international students often get homesick and crave the comfort food they grew up with. Eating food from their home country can help students feel more at ease when they are feeling homesick or frustrated with cultural differences.
For students from China, for example, fried rice dishes are a common comfort food, and a hot cup of tea can also help them feel more at home. Students from Beijing may be used to street food cooked with dark soy paste, sesame paste, sesame oil, and scallions, while those from Guangzhou may be accustomed to heavily-flavoured meat dishes with garlic. Chongqing students might miss the local specialty, hot pot, or the infamous taste-bud-numbing mala spice. Instant noodles are also a go-to for international students on a budget, and they can be made more nutritious with eggs, vegetables, and meat.
Students from Hong Kong may be more familiar with a variety of cuisines, including Western foods, due to the city's international nature. However, Cantonese and Chaozhou cuisine are also popular in Hong Kong.
Encouraging students to join in preparing meals as a family, whether they are American or Chinese dishes, can help create a sense of belonging and foster cultural exchange. It can be a great way to bond and learn about each other's cultures. Similarly, inviting students to help with grocery shopping can be beneficial. While it is a thoughtful idea to prepare food that international students are familiar with, it is also good to encourage them to try new dishes and become a part of the family's routine.
International students can face various challenges, including homesickness, financial difficulties, and adapting to a new culture. Keeping busy, joining societies, and making new friends can help ease the transition.
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Eating out on a budget
Eating out can be one of the most exciting parts of studying abroad, but it can also be expensive. Here are some tips to help international students eat out while sticking to a budget:
Timing is everything
The smart student knows that choosing the right time to eat out can make a big difference in price. Instead of dining out in the evenings, try going for lunch or a pre-theatre menu. Dining out early in the week can also be cheaper than on weekends.
Do your research
Keep an eye out for special offers and discounts. Many restaurants have deals on certain nights of the week, and some offer discounts to students. You can find vouchers and coupons in grocery stores' info magazines, or on websites like Student Money Saver, Student Beans, and Save the Student.
Loyalty pays off
Collect loyalty cards from your favourite restaurants, and follow them on social media to be the first to hear about deals. You can also book tables through sites with loyalty schemes, like 5pm (UK) or Open Table (US).
Share a meal
Eating out with friends? Consider sharing a few dishes family-style. This can be a great way to try new foods without spending a lot.
Be a reviewer
If you enjoy writing, consider becoming a restaurant reviewer for your university magazine. You'll get to sample menus for free, and most restaurants will let you bring a guest.
Choose affordable options
When dining out, opt for smaller, local establishments, which may be cheaper than big-name restaurants. You can also try street food or food trucks, which often offer delicious, affordable options.
Remember, it's all about balance. By being mindful of your spending and taking advantage of deals, you can enjoy eating out while staying within your budget.
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Healthy eating
Firstly, focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Include lean proteins such as chicken, fish, beans, and lentils in your diet. Consume a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables that are high in fibre and antioxidants. For sustained energy, opt for complete grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread. These nutrient-dense choices can enhance cognitive function and improve academic performance.
It is also important to maintain hydration by drinking at least eight glasses of water daily. Carry a reusable water bottle to remind yourself to stay hydrated, which is crucial for digestive support, energy levels, and overall body function.
In addition to nutrient-dense foods, it is beneficial to eat regular meals and not skip breakfast. Studies show that skipping breakfast can negatively impact scholastic achievement and lead to weight gain. Even if you are short on time, try to grab a quick breakfast like a bagel, fruit, or juice. If you must eat fast food, make healthier choices like pizza with less cheese or a baked potato.
To save money, it is advisable to limit dining out at restaurants, especially in expensive cities. Instead, cook at home and stock up on healthy snacks to avoid the temptation of vending machine junk food during late-night study sessions.
Lastly, when studying abroad, it can be challenging to navigate new culinary environments. Connect with other international students, explore local markets, and exchange cooking advice to make healthier food choices together. This can create a supportive community centred around wellness.
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Familiar food
International students may appreciate having rice as an option for every meal, as it is a staple food in many countries. A rice cooker can make it easier to prepare rice, and it is also a good idea to consider the type of rice and the way it is cooked to make it taste more familiar to the student. For example, Jasmine rice from Vietnam can be cooked in a Vietnamese steamer to make it taste more authentic.
Instant noodles are another popular choice among international students, especially those from Japan, where instant noodles were invented. They are cheap, tasty, and can be made healthier by adding eggs, vegetables, and meat.
When in doubt about what to feed an international student, it is always a good idea to ask them or invite them to help with the grocery shopping. This can be a great way to bond and ensure that the student feels included and valued.
Additionally, schools and colleges can play a role in meeting the culinary needs of their international students by giving students input into menu selection. This can be done through food committees or student food awards that focus on pupil engagement and feedback.
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Student input on menus
Firstly, it is important to understand the cultural background of the students and what they are used to eating. For instance, students from China or Vietnam may prefer to have rice with their meals, and a rice cooker can be purchased for this purpose. In addition, some students may prefer simpler flavours that can be easily mixed with other foods, so it is a good idea to ask them for their preferences or invite them to join you when shopping for groceries.
Secondly, providing a variety of food options is crucial. While it is a thoughtful gesture to prepare meals that international students are familiar with, it is also beneficial to encourage them to try new things and experience the local culture through food. For example, at Felsted School, a group of students prepare a meal of their choice to showcase their food culture to their peers. This not only allows students to share their culinary traditions but also creates a bond between them as they learn about each other's families and cultures.
Thirdly, it is important to be mindful of dietary restrictions and preferences. Some students may have religious beliefs that impact their dietary choices, so providing alternatives or options that cater to their needs is essential. In addition, some students may prefer vegetarian or vegan meals, so having a good selection of vegetables and plant-based proteins is beneficial.
Lastly, it is helpful to involve students in the menu planning process. This can be done through a student food committee that regularly meets with the school chef to discuss new dishes and changes to the menu. This ensures that students have a say in what is being served and can provide feedback on the food offerings. It also empowers them to take ownership of their dining experience and feel more connected to the school community.
By considering the cultural backgrounds, preferences, and restrictions of international students, and by involving them in the menu planning process, schools can create a welcoming and inclusive dining environment that contributes to the overall well-being and satisfaction of their students.
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Frequently asked questions
Instant ramen is a cheap and tasty meal option for students on a budget. It can be made more nutritious by adding eggs, vegetables, and meat.
Students can save money by dining out less frequently and opting for cheaper restaurants. Using coupons and loyalty programs can also help reduce food expenses.
It is important to provide international students with familiar food options. For example, rice is a staple for students from China, and a rice cooker can make it easier to prepare. It is also a good idea to involve students in meal planning and grocery shopping to ensure their dietary needs are met.
Schools can give students a say in menu selection and encourage them to participate in cooking activities to showcase their food cultures. This helps ease homesickness and increase social interaction.
International students may face financial difficulties and cultural barriers that limit their access to food. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many international students in the UK struggled to afford food and felt abandoned by their universities.
