The 2024-2025 International Enrollment Report reported that 6,644 international students attend UT Austin. As international students adapt to cultural and social norms, they must also manage new academic expectations. Creating a safe and welcoming environment that encourages them to be part of the UT community is important.
Aside from being away from home, international students often face challenges as they enter an institution with different academic standards and grading methods.
“International students do need a little bit (of) extra guidance with academic expectations, which can be tricky,” said Di Wang, assistant professor of instruction at UT.
From writing style to discussion-based classes, there are a number of academic changes students entering the United States education system might have to face. Professors should encourage international students to take advantage of these beneficial practices by fostering an inclusive environment during class and office hours.
Wang explains how she practices this in the classes she teaches.
“I have a U.S.-China trade war simulation, and I encourage students who have some Chinese background to speak up and talk about this from the Chinese perspective, which really brings something new to the table,” Wang said.
Inviting and including international students in discussions can help provide new, unique angles on topics.
Additionally, registering for classes can also be difficult for an international student.
“Navigating registering for classes was really hard. … I think international students should be given a specific advisor,” said Agathe Cirasa, an advertising junior and international student.
Professors taking time to offer additional office hours for international students or provide resources to support those unfamiliar with writing styles can be beneficial.
In addition to academic challenges, the social scene at UT can also be overwhelming due to the culture shock and lack of familiarity with social norms. To prevent isolation, administrators and student organizations should reach out to international students to get involved with campus activities and clubs.
Cirasa shares her interest in politics and her International, Out of State and Transfer Student Agency in student government this year.
“It was a little scary because I came from France, so my English wasn’t too good. I was really anxious, but I finally did it this year,” said Cirasa.
There are many things international students can miss out on due to the lack of information available. Finding roommates, the right place to live and understanding what classes to take are all part of this process.
Wang shares how working with international students is one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching for her because she was once an international student and relates to some of the challenges they face with language barriers, cultural differences and adjusting to a new environment.
“I want to encourage everyone … to create a welcoming environment for all. … We are all unique in some way. … So try to be respectful and welcoming.”
Sheikh is a communications and leadership senior from Dallas, Texas.
