The Adjustment Challenges and Corresponding Solutions for Chinese International Students in the United States

Abstract

Information about the challenges and adjustments for Chinese international students in the United States is ill-informed. This literature review analyzes the two major adjustment problems for Chinese international students, the reasons that contribute to these challenges, and provide some possible corresponding solutions. Firstly, cultural differences between China and the United States interact with the separation from families, the emergence of developing new social networks, and concerns about economic issues and certificates leading to social adjustment challenges for Chinese international students. Secondly, language barriers, accents, and unfamiliarity with the new education system contribute to Chinese international students’ academic adjustment problems. Eventually, all these factors combined together affect the mental status of Chinese international students while increasing their social isolation, leading to poor academic performances, and making them feel inferior and pain. However, Chinese international students may relieve their pressure and shorten the period for adjustment through actively socializing in new environments, developing social networks with local Americans and compatriots, adopting integration strategies toward a new culture, and pursuing some external help such as psychological counseling.