Navigating cultural differences in academic contexts for students, faculty, and staff

Extensive research has identified all the benefits of international education. Nevertheless, the process of adjusting to a different academic setting can present challenges for students, faculty, and staff at diverse levels. Similarly, all members of the host institutions should be aware of the diverse cultural backgrounds of the university community to facilitate their integration and collaboration in the classroom and other university services. Only through the complete interplay and cooperation of all the agents involved can institutions contribute to enriching learning, professional experience, and personal development. Detecting the most relevant focuses of challenges, misunderstandings, and distress from the perspective of all the parties concerned can help facilitate and optimize the international experience at a different institution.