A Guide to U.S. Master's Degree Programs for International Students
Cultural Adjustments
New students typically have a host of concerns when they arrive in the US. Academic issues often top the list, but students also worry about making friends, finding a place to live or worship, and what to eat. From our experience with thousands of new international students, we know that the ability to adapt culturally leads to better success in: academic, social, and personal health arenas. New students should expect a cultural adjustment process by anticipating small and large changes in the perceptions of others, interactions in academic and social settings, and reactions to unexpected situations. This process can be challenging, but awareness and some tips can help!
Cultural Adaptation
Even if you are adept in new situations, you will need to adapt at many levels
of your life as a student in the US: academic, social, cultural, and emotional.
For example, in the American classroom, students are expected to “participate” by asking questions and giving opinions. Your active participation indicates that you are paying attention, engaging in the learning process, and interested. If you come from a country where “the teachers talk, and the students listen,” then this will require some modification. Our point is: the things that have defined your academic success in your home culture may or may not ensure your success in the US. So, watch your American classmates, and mirror their general behavior. Speak with your professor about his/her expectations.
This is just one example of the many adaptations you may make. The good news is that many students find a good balance and like their new home!
Adjustment Curve
Most students experience a U-shaped curve as they move through the cultural
adjustment process. You will likely move from high expectations and excitement
to some dissatisfaction, or frustration. You may then feel uncertain or depressed;
however, you’ll soon experience an increasing understanding of the new
culture and your fit within it. Eventually, you’ll achieve balance between
your own needs and cultural norms with US culture. We liken this normal adjustment
process to the letter “U” - up, down, then up again! Each person
experiences this adjustment curve in a unique way, but you are certain to
have some of these feelings as you move through the stages of adaptation.
Tips
Here are some tips that we share with new students to ease their adjustment
to the US college and university experience:
• Anticipate that you will experience cultural adaptations, even if you are good in new situations.
• Bring items such as photos, posters, music, or artwork from home to remind you of family and friends.
• Identify students from your country or region or any new student who may be experiencing the same issues. Talk with them about your feelings.
• Ask your Foreign Student Advisor for advice and campus resources.
• Get involved in a campus activity: athletics, a club or student group, or campus job. Make a new group of acquaintances right away.
• If someone asks you to lunch, say “yes!” Otherwise, you’ve lost an opportunity. If no one asks, then you can take the first step by asking “would you like to get a quick bite to eat sometime this week?”
• Watch for signs of depression – sleeplessness, lethargy, lack of appetite – and consult a trusted friend and/or your campus health or counseling center for help.
• Plan some quick conversation starters with new American friends – the weather, sports, American holidays, family members. Consult an ESL teacher for tips on starting, having, and ending casual conversations.
Successful adaptation to a new culture is wonderful! When you have arrived
on the up side of the adjustment curve, you will have achieved a new area
of expertise. Your familiarity with a different culture will serve you well
for the rest of your life. So, enjoy the process while learning about yourself
and others. And, don’t forget to share your successes with the next
round of new international students arriving on your campus.
