Why is the research about International students so one-sided?
While the number of Chinese international students studying in America increases, so does the number of articles explaining why their experience will be negative. Most research about Chinese international students’ experience focuses on the negative aspects of their adjustment. Researchers explain that students are at a higher risk for mental health issues and also are very likely to not seek counseling. Chinese international students face a language barrier, cultural differences, and a new academic environment, all of which can lead to social isolation.
However, the number of Chinese students attending school in the US increases annually. If their experience was as negative as research predicts, why do students keep coming and why do students not choose to return home? There must be a disconnect between what researchers want to convey and the actual Chinese international student experience. Although international students do face unique challenges, many of these students overcome these challenges and learn valuable lessons from their experience. Research on this topic has yet to delve into the positive aspects of immersing oneself in a new culture and new environment and the background behind the choice to leave one's home for school in a different country. Learning about how these students navigate the transition from their home country to America can offer a unique perspective on how they perceive their own success.
Broader implications of this research include applications for counseling services and school programs for international students.
While the number of Chinese international students studying in America increases, so does the number of articles explaining why their experience will be negative. Most research about Chinese international students’ experience focuses on the negative aspects of their adjustment. Researchers explain that students are at a higher risk for mental health issues and also are very likely to not seek counseling. Chinese international students face a language barrier, cultural differences, and a new academic environment, all of which can lead to social isolation.
However, the number of Chinese students attending school in the US increases annually. If their experience was as negative as research predicts, why do students keep coming and why do students not choose to return home? There must be a disconnect between what researchers want to convey and the actual Chinese international student experience. Although international students do face unique challenges, many of these students overcome these challenges and learn valuable lessons from their experience. Research on this topic has yet to delve into the positive aspects of immersing oneself in a new culture and new environment and the background behind the choice to leave one's home for school in a different country. Learning about how these students navigate the transition from their home country to America can offer a unique perspective on how they perceive their own success.
Broader implications of this research include applications for counseling services and school programs for international students.