APRIL 6, 2023 VOL.

GLOBAL TERPS
University of Maryland's International Student Newsletter

IN THIS ISSUE Topic Description

by Mishti Relan
STARTING AN
INTRODUCTORY GUIDE Are you an international student new to the
University of Maryland and feeling
INTERNATIONAL overwhelmed by the unfamiliar campus and
community? Our project aims to create an
STUDENT CHALLENGES
introductory guide specifically designed for
AT US UNIVERSITIES
international students to help ease your
transition into university life. The guide
HELPFUL RESOURCES will cover everything from campus
FOR INTERNATIONAL resources and support services to cultural
and social events happening around the
STUDENTS
area. We'll also include tips and advice from
current international students to help you
INTERESTING FACTS navigate the academic and social landscape.
With this guide, you'll feel more confident
and prepared to make the most of your time
REFERENCES
at the University of Maryland!
 APRIL 6, 2023 VOL. 1

We aim to create a user-friendly resource for international students, accessible

on ISSS's website. This will help provide the necessary information and support
to promote a welcoming and inclusive campus community for all students.

Academic Research
by Mishti Relan

Lee and Rice's research shows that cultural

adjustment difficulties and language barriers can
result in social isolation and marginalization for
international students, impacting their academic
performance and mental health. Thus, an
introductory guide catered to international
students can assist in making their transition to
university life smoother by offering pertinent
information to tackle these challenges.

Sharma et al.'s recent study suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has posed
additional challenges for international students. These challenges include travel
restrictions, online learning, and social isolation among many others. Keeping
this in mind, the guide can be updated with resources and tips to help
international students adapt to the evolving university environment.

R. Raby and K. Valeau suggest that

collaboration among campus stakeholders
is crucial to support international
students. This information can guide the
creation of the introductory guide to
include campus resources, events, and
cultural norms, as well as tips for
navigating the university environment and
promoting cultural awareness among
stakeholders.
 APRIL 6, 2023 VOL. 1

Non-academic
Research
by Mishti Relan

According to a Forbes article by Ilana

Kowarski, universities should offer
resources and support services
specifically designed for international
students, such as language classes,
cultural events, and counseling services.
Kowarski also emphasizes the importance
of creating a welcoming campus culture
that values diversity and inclusivity.

Another way to enhance the international student experience is to provide

more opportunities for students to interact with American students and the
wider community. This could include mentorship programs, community service
initiatives, and internships that allow international students to gain practical
experience in their fields of study. These opportunities can be highlighted in the
guide so that international students can get a brief overview of opportunities
specifically tailored for them at a glance.

A U.S. News & World Report article

highlights the importance of a
written introductory guide for
international students as it can
help international students
navigate the complex systems and
structures of American
universities, including academic
policies, campus resources, and
cultural norms.
 APRIL 6, 2023 VOL. 1

The article suggests that such a guide can be particularly beneficial for
international students who may face language barriers or cultural differences
that can make it difficult to access and understand important information. The
guide can also help international students to manage their time and prioritize
their academic and personal goals.

Many universities have recognized the value of

written introductory guides for international
students and have developed such resources
themselves. The guides can be distributed in a
variety of formats, including online and in
print, and can be customized to meet the
needs of specific student populations. By
providing international students with a
comprehensive written guide, colleges and
universities can help these students feel more
confident and prepared as they navigate the
challenges of college life in a new country.

Interesting Fact about

International Students
by Mishti Relan

I was very surprised to find out how significantly

international students contribute to the American
economy, both in terms of tuition revenue and living
expenses. According to the Institute of International
Education, international students contributed $45
billion to the U.S. economy in 2018 - 2019. This
revenue comes not only from tuition fees paid to
universities but also from living expenses such as
housing, transportation, food, and entertainment.
APRIL 6, 2023 VOL. 1

References
Sharma, S., Madaan, V., & Petty, T. (2021). Challenges faced by international
students in the USA during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of International
Students, 11(2), 335-351. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v11i2.3125
Raby, R., & Valeau, K. (2018). Fostering institutional change to support
international student success. Journal of International Students, 8(2), 918-937.
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.1243901
Institute of International Education. (2019). International students in the
United States. Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, 4.
Kowarski, I. (2019, July 31). How U.S. colleges can better serve international
students. Forbes.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/ilanakowarski/2019/07/31/how-us-colleges-
can-better-serve-international-students/?sh=76c4fd204df4
U.S. News & World Report. (2019, May 21). How to create a welcoming campus
for international students. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-
colleges/articles/how-to-create-a-welcoming-campus-for-international-
students
Institute of International Education. (2019). International students in the
United States. Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange.
https://www.iie.org/opendoors.