Intercultural adaptation, network diversity and social capital in North America

Dr. Du received Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council funds to examine what influences cultural adaptation in Canada and U.S to form policies to integrate international students on campus.

This study examines what influences international students’ cultural adaptation in Canada and U.S. The goal is to provide an in-depth understanding of how the students make sense of their adjustment journey and how they form social connections to facilitate the adjustment.

This study addresses issues related to cultural adaptation, social networks and social integration among the international students. Understanding international students’ experience in the host institutions and country could provide suggestions on better adjustment. It also has important practical implications for higher education institutions to form strategies and policies to integrate international students which contributes to campus cultural diversity.