Overcoming challenges through International Student Services

For international students to be successful means having support when and if you need it every step along the way. At liberal arts schools, we understand this. This blog is put together to highlight some of the resources that you can use to help you thrive and succeed at the school you choose. Hear directly from 4 students who talk about the support services they used throughout their time at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin.

How an advisor can help you

Every international student is on their own unique educational journey. At Lawrence University, we connect you with a faculty advisor to help you register for classes and support your decision about what to study.

"Since I was interested in many areas, I had a hard time deciding which classes I should take. I overcame this challenge by talking to my advisor and setting my priorities." —Riko Ogihara ’23, Japan

How academic support can help you

For some international students, picking courses is easy but the academic environment can be quite rigorous and adapting to academic life can be a challenge initially.

“Classes in college are much more challenging than high school so I had a hard time at first but I soon overcame the hardships thanks to the support and resources from office hours and tutoring sessions.” —Elina Nguyen ’22, Vietnam

Most liberal arts schools offer academic success resources; some focus especially on supporting English as a second language and some offer tutoring sessions. Additionally, they may offer course support and help transitioning into the academic learning community of a liberal arts program (such as what to expect from academic discussions, writing thesis-driven essays and critical thinking about texts in a U.S. historical context).

“I was also challenged greatly academically so I spent lots of time studying, going to tutors and asking professors for help.” —Difei Jiang ’23, China

How other international students can help you

Student tutors are not the only examples of student mentorship and support that you can find as you transition to college. At Lawrence University, we connect new students with current international students beginning at orientation.

“I could still remember the first day when I came Lawrence University. There are many student advisors to help us to adapt in new environment in Lawrence. They helped from airport to getting into my dorm. People at Lawrence are always happy to help people and very kind. I enjoyed the first month here in Lawrence. Since I am an international student, I spent two weeks for international orientation weeks so that I could meet many new friends. Still, there are great friends for me!”  —Dahee Kim ’22, South Korea

How learning to balance your responsibilities can help you

Balancing classes, extracurricular pursuits, and life as an international student sometimes can be a challenge.

“Learning to overcome these challenges [visas, finances, time management, and work placement] has been a part of my growth at Lawrence University. It has helped me become a better person.” – Difei Jiang ’23, China

Ultimately, international students need to have the right supportive environment to thrive and so you can make the most of your college experience abroad. Do not be afraid to use those support services that are available to you.