Challenges experienced by international students while doing their graduate studies at Memorial University of Newfoundland

Ranasinghe, Radheeka (2023) Challenges experienced by international students while doing their graduate studies at Memorial University of Newfoundland. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This abstract provides an overview of the challenges faced by international students at Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) while pursuing their graduate studies. It highlights the key challenges that international students encounter during their academic journey and the implications these challenges have on their overall experience and well-being. This qualitative study explores various aspects of the challenges faced by international students at MUN, including financial difficulties, cultural adjustment, health, accommodations, language barriers, mental health, climatic, food, daycare and employment. It examines the impact of these challenges on students' academic performance, personal growth, and social integration. Through a comprehensive literature review and analysis of existing research, this study sheds light on the experiences and perspectives of international students at MUN. It explores the multifaceted nature of the challenges they face and the strategies they employ to overcome these obstacles. The findings reveal that international students at MUN face significant financial burdens, including high tuition fees, high living expenses, and limited financial support options. Moreover, language barriers pose communication challenges, hindering their academic progress and social interactions. Cultural adjustment difficulties, such as adapting to a new educational system and social norms, further contribute to their challenges. Health care challenges included limited access to Medicare, health insurance coverage. Unaffordable housing cost, unavailability of housing closer to MUN and issues they had with on campus accommodation were discussed under Accommodations challenges. Limited availability to daycare and high cost of daycare were pointed out by the participants with regards to daycare challenges. Unpredictable weather conditions in Newfoundland and daylight hours were associated with climatic challenges. Difficulty in finding cultural foods and spices were the concerns of food challenges faced by international students. This study also highlights the detrimental impact of academic pressure on international students, leading to stress, anxiety, and decreased mental well-being. These challenges often result in feelings of isolation, homesickness, and a sense of belongingness. Despite the various challenges, international students at MUN demonstrate resilience and determination in overcoming these obstacles. They employ coping strategies such as seeking support from peers, faculty, and support services, engaging in cultural activities, and participating in language enhancement programs.

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