5 Challenges Facing International College Students

In this blog, I will discuss different challenges Facing International college students.

5 Challenges Facing International College Students

The 5 Challenges For International College Students include but not limited to the following:

Academic Challenges

There are two types of academic challenges.

• Written Assignments

International college students might not be familiar with the structure of coursework at a U.S. university. Structures like; how to conduct research or how to write academically. Many nations value the memorization of a common fact basis over the individualized interpretation of the curriculum which the American universities utilize.

• Classroom Difficulties

International college students who don’t speak English naturally will be hurt by the emphasis on classroom discussions. Different points of view are discussed in a format that differs from formats utilized in other nations where “proper solutions” are anticipated.

While it is disrespectful in many cultures to disagree with a professor, in the United States, students who effectively argue their points receive high scores. Instead of emphasizing attendance in class and use of office hours, grading in other nations tends to concentrate a lot of weight on final exams. In some societies, it is customary to respect the greater status of faculty as off-limits, which would deter students from approaching them in more casual settings. As a result, students seeking out professors or teaching assistants are often rated higher. Additionally, some students could struggle with making oral presentations or taking notes.

Language Barriers

Language barriers have two different types.

• Unwillingness to Seek Clarification 

Many international college students are afraid of upsetting people or making themselves feel insecure, therefore they won’t ask them to clarify what they mean. Peers or lecturers might think poorly of them because of their ignorance. Many people are even more hesitant to request an explanation if they sense a negative reaction. The end result could be a decline in their sense of self.

• Engaging in Conversations

Many foreign students have studied English in their home countries, but they might not be as familiar with slang or the rapid-fire pace at which their classmates communicate. For instance, it can be difficult to utilize prepositions to form compound verbs . These can make it challenging to understand and participate in conversations.

Social and Cultural Differences

There are two different types of social and culture differences.

• Culture Shock

Many students are unprepared for the casual interactions with “authority figures” like professors or college leaders. They are also not acquainted with variances in food, alcohol during social gatherings and local events that characterize American college campuses. If you come from a society where these behaviors and identities are taboo, the openness surrounding sexuality and gender identity, can be unsettling. Many foreign cultures view Americans’ eating habits at meals while standing up as impolite.

• Social Isolation

Like all students, international students miss home, but they only have the opportunity to visit home twice a year rather than the more frequent visits that are normal, especially the freshmen.

Furthermore, time zone differences make it more difficult to call home at convenient times. Students often arrive with two bags worth of belongings instead of a car’s worth, therefore their spaces are less decorated. They tend to be outsiders and participate in less shared activities, like sports or any other extracurriculars, than their housemates.

They may not have any traditions or connections to the holidays observed here, and their own holidays are not recognized by the American system. Since those groups are typically tiny, they will naturally gravitate toward others from those backgrounds, further separating them from completely integrating with their classmates. International students may avoid social situations because they are separated from their own families, friends, language, and sociocultural conventions.

Financial Difficulties

Financial difficulties have two different types.

• Effort to Perform

Many international students experience added pressure to perform academically due to the high expenditures of tuition, lodging, and board. They could feel pressured by their families to choose majors that are only practical or lucrative, and they might not be encouraged to consider all of the available professional options.

• Getting Loans and Jobs

Without a U.S. Social Security number or credit history, it is challenging to obtain school loans or a U.S. credit card. Additionally, unless they are sponsored jointly by their college or university, international students are not permitted to work under the terms of their visas.

Psychological Difficulties

There are two different types of psychological difficulties.

• Emotional challenges

Homesickness is one of the biggest issues facing overseas students. Academic, social, cultural, and financial constraints are added to this, which may cause too much stress, anxiety, and despair. The idea that they should feel fortunate and privileged to have the opportunity to study abroad clashes frequently with their emotional challenges.

• Lack of Access to Mental Health Services

Even though they are more likely to experience psychological issues, many international students choose not to access mental health services. Since mental health issues might run counter to their cultural norms and expectations, stigma is frequently to blame. Additionally, students might not be aware of the mental health services offered in the campus or may not feel comfortable “complaining” or talking about their feelings.

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