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It started when we arrive in the maze... 
Many facets of our study abroad journey

Every international student arrives in a maze of opportunities and challenges on a foreign land.
It is exciting and yet nerve-racking. 

"I have lots to say, but I run short of words in a second language."
"I am not shy, just that I don't think it's okay to speak up."
"I've met some new friends, but I still don't feel fitting in."
"It freaks me out when I am asked to prep for a presentation in 5 minutes!"
"Employers turn me down once I ask about H1b."

International students face challenges such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, academic stress, financial concerns, social isolation, constrained academic and career opportunities, and lack understanding from the broader college community. In addition, they often feel heightened pressure to succeed academically based on their cultural background and the financial sacrifices their families make to allow them to study internationally.  ​

We get lost along the way...
​Mental health is a dare risk

We need help, but we might just bear it through, we feel shamed to ask for help, and we don't know who to turn to. 
Until depression and anxiety kick in...

"The excitement is gone. Now it's more disappointment."
"Everything falls heavily on my shoulders."
"It's like nobody can ever understand. People assume I should be all good."
"I'm lost. I can't seem to see my purpose. "

International students struggle disproportionately with mental health issues, as they face additional pressures and stressors in their transition to college life. ​ A 2013 Yale study found 45% of Chinese international student reported they have depressive symptoms at some point during their overseas study and 29% reported anxiety symptoms”. 

​Despite the alarming trends, many international students who need help do not get it. International students commonly suffer from two barriers to seeking help: the wide array of support resources and services available in the US simply don't exist in their countries of origin; there are also significant stigma associated with utilizing available resources. ​

Learn more about Asian international students adjustment challenges and mental health

But we can take actions to go beyond...
Empower yourself, help others, transform the community

Most of us have experienced difficulties during study abroad. 
Many of us have observed fellow international students around us struggling at times. 
Some of us have equipped self-help techniques, taken up helping roles, shared personal resources, and/or initiated creative projects.
All of us have the essential assets to overcome challenges for the individual and for the international student community. 

​Power comes within each of us, within our community. As we stand together, we could 

Value cross-culture
Empower yourself
Help others
Transform our community

Read more on MAZE framework of empowerment and asset-based community development.

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