Possible Solutions

Ask normal questions to international students like you would to Americans like, "What is your major?" or "What kind of music do you like," not just questions about where the international student is from.

Many international students are shy or help them and make the first move.

Make more international friends.

Be patient and understanding when a international student is speaking to you or if you are having difficulties understanding each other.

Don't be influenced by stereotypes.

Stand up to discrimination, don't remain silent.

Educate youself on other international issues and go to cultural events.

Consider participating in a travel study or studying abroad or even learn a new language.

American Students

International Students

Overcome shyness and don't be afraid to speak up, even if your self-conscious about your English skills.

Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Use your professors office hours often,and get extra help from tutors.

Don't use your friends as your primary source for help, seek out help from other places on campus.

Befriend Americans, your English will improve. You came to study in the United States to learn English, it will improve if you do.

Prepare yourself for American colleges. Educate yourself on the education system in America and familiarize yourself on all your visa information.

Educate yourself on American culture. Don't use Hollywood films as your primary source.

Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

Stand up to discrimination and report anything to your International Office.

Faculty

Recognize that group work and classroom discussions are difficult for international students.

Split up American and international students evenly for group work.

Ask international students if they need help, they may be to shy to ask.

Seek out information about international students from your university's international office.

Recognize that discrimination occurs in many forms and make sure that it is not occurring in your classroom or is in the work you are teaching.

Be patient and understanding to international students when they are speaking because of the language barrier.

Universities

Make sure proper action is being taken on issues of discrimination and racism.

Support cultural and diversity events.

Seek out various different forms of media to appeal to international students especially during your recruitment process.

Send out university information in various different languages, because many information is missed due to language barriers.

Find new ways to get international and American students to interact.

Ask international students for suggestions on how the university can improve.

Build a stronger relationship with cultural and international clubs and associations.