BUILDING A MORE INCLUSIVE AND WELCOMING LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Abstract

This paper explores the challenges of connecting with a cohort when there are significant cultural and linguistic differences. The author, who is an international student, describes how their first birthday in their new country was a lonely experience due to difficulty communicating with their cohort and feeling like an outsider. The paper discusses the factors that can make it difficult to connect with a cohort, such as accent, cultural norms, and expectations. It also offers suggestions for how to overcome these challenges and build meaningful relationships with peers from different backgrounds