International Student Interview: Cross-Cultural Adaptation (China)

I’d like to thank my student Sarah for her excellent final project: International Student Interview.  I would also like to thank NingXin Wang for sharing her story with us.  Because of their hard work, we have access to the cross-cultural experiences of a UNR international student from China.  I hope that this helps students coming to America as well as educators in America better prepare for study abroad’s challenges and rewards.

Many of NingXin Wang’s cross-cultural adaptation and transitional challenges are shared among international students.  The following key points are from the video:

• Cross-Cultural Challenges: Language, making friends, and culture shock.
• She coped with language challenges by practicing English and writing skills with family and taking classes.
• It was difficult making American friends.  She flew home to China a lot to cope with culture shock.  She tried fitting in with American friends by helping them get better grades (cheating) and trying to be seen as popular or cool.
• American classroom culture is very different.  She stated that students are rude to teachers, she got bullied, and coursework progressed slowly.
• She still feels pressure because of Asian stereotypes. Language and American phrases is still a struggle.
• Being separated from family can be very challenging but she uses Skype & WeChat to communicate often.
• She likes the U.S. culture and diversity.
• NingXin Wang recommends that international students and travelers “be open-minded” and practice English often.
• Having a family member living in the U.S. helped NingXin’s adjustment.

To provide more stories about study abroad in America, I will post a new international student interview from a different country each week for the few weeks. Check out previous interviews students from Beijing, China, Vietnam, Bangkok, Thailand, the Congo, Japan, and Mexico.  Hope you find this helpful and please comment if you do.  Thanks.

Also, HLSL Institute is a helpful resource for international students, travelers, expatriates and expatriate families coming to the U.S.    Check it out if you want help with cultural transition, language, transportation, and acculturation development.