Navigating Cultural Transition: Experiences of International Students at a Midwestern University
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| Title: | Navigating Cultural Transition: Experiences of International Students at a Midwestern University |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Dushani Rajaratnam (ORCID |
| Source: | Journal of International Students. 2026 16(14):293-312. |
| Availability: | Journal of International Students. 4005 Spurgeon Drive #6, Monroe, LA 71203. Tel: 318-600-5743; Fax: 318-342-3131; e-mail: jis@ojed.org; Web site: https://www.ojed.org/index.php/jis/index |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 19 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Foreign Students, Cultural Differences, Adjustment (to Environment), Student Attitudes, Student Experience, College Students, Barriers, Universities, Self Concept |
| ISSN: | 2162-3104 2166-3750 |
| Abstract: | International students make a remarkable contribution to U.S. higher education, but face considerable obstacles during cultural transition. This qualitative study investigated the cultural adaptation experiences of 15 international students at a midwestern university, led by Berry's acculturation theory. Data from semistructured interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that students navigated significant academic and linguistic challenges and adapted a twofold social network, primarily relying on conational peers before seeking cross-cultural connections. While centralized services were valuable, personalized faculty mentorship and peer relationships were the most effective supports, facilitating a shift toward a bicultural identity. The study concludes that successful integration requires a "whole-of-university" approach, implying a need for enhanced peer mentoring and faculty development to foster more inclusive and supportive campus environments. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1516293 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | International students make a remarkable contribution to U.S. higher education, but face considerable obstacles during cultural transition. This qualitative study investigated the cultural adaptation experiences of 15 international students at a midwestern university, led by Berry's acculturation theory. Data from semistructured interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that students navigated significant academic and linguistic challenges and adapted a twofold social network, primarily relying on conational peers before seeking cross-cultural connections. While centralized services were valuable, personalized faculty mentorship and peer relationships were the most effective supports, facilitating a shift toward a bicultural identity. The study concludes that successful integration requires a "whole-of-university" approach, implying a need for enhanced peer mentoring and faculty development to foster more inclusive and supportive campus environments. |
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| ISSN: | 2162-3104 2166-3750 |
