Supporting the international student in the US: Triumphs, challenges, and possible solutions Ragea AlQahtani, Reem AlRusaiyas, Maha AlSuliman, Rehab AlZayer, Supattra Andrade, Catherine Ayantoye, Feng Chen Lin, Lewis Jackson, Rashida Banerjee For more information contact: Rashida Banerjee at Orientation to the new education system in the US Lack of: *faculty and peer interactions *clear understanding of goals, expectations *information on available university resources and services *Increase social networks to build relationships with peers and professors *Articulate clear goals and expectations * Provide information of resources via graduate handbooks, guided tours of the university Online courses/ programs using computer mediated tools for learning *Challenges with English language combined with learning new technology; *Lack of understanding of cultural contexts in learning/ teaching may lead to depression and drop-out *Provide intense practice in reading and writing academic content *More time to complete assignments and readings *Be sensitive to cultural differences when developing content and designing course Professional tutoring, especially in English *Difficulty in comprehending class lectures due to language barrier and accent difficulties *Difficulty in understanding assignments leading to poor performance *Students review the text before class *Take active notes while listening *Take instruction in listening and note taking strategies *Take advantage of available university resources Culture shock *Negative stereotypes amongst peers and faculty members often created due to media portrayals and lack of information *Home sickness *Activities and programs that promote cross cultural interactions *The university International student offices play a big role *Active student groups Commun -ication challenges *Non-native English speakers face communication challenges that may impede cross-cultural communication and meaningful social engagement *Provide and use resources that enhance communication e.g. Writing Centers to improve writing skills, platform for cross cultural dialogues Social interaction *Socially appropriate interaction in the US –both for the student and other who interact with the student *Incorporate strategies to reduce stereotypes & develop positive problem solving; *seek out similarity rather than differences amongst cultures; *separate political views and individuals Significant US laws and policies for participation in the society *Most laws and policies are new for international students; e.g. residence contracts, obtaining driver's license, credit card, cell phone etc. *Provide orientation to the social policies and procedures related to living in the US *Active student groups US immigration laws *Policies of Department of Homeland Security related visa and status; taking courses online *A clear understanding of enrollment policies; *advocating for change in he policies University policies Unknown university policies; e.g. plagiarism Clear understanding of the university polices and procedures at the orientation; particularly related to understanding plagiarism Academic SocialPolicy TOPICS ISSUES SOLUTIONS