Supporting International Students

Faculty Advisor's Guide to Supporting International Students

The CIE has created a guide with career guidance and support resources: https://wlu.box.com/v/IntlStudentAdvisorsGuide

Campus Resources 

There are many resources available for W&L international students. We encourage you to review the list of relevant resources below so that you can refer international students to the right place for support when needed. If you have any questions, please contact Hunter Swanson, Associate Director of International Education.

Resource Services More Information
Office of Inclusion and Engagement Laptop lending program, emergency support funding requests, resources, and support for diverse students, etc. https://my.wlu.edu/office-of-inclusion-and-engagement
Public Safety Affordable airport transportation, emergency services, Traveller, safe ride program, etc. https://my.wlu.edu/student-life/health-and-safety/public- safety
Center for International Education Visa advising for international students, work authorization, assistance with taxes, driver's license, social security, study abroad, cultural adjustment, etc. https://my.wlu.edu/center-for-international-education
Student Health and Counseling Center Affordable primary health care and consultation, mental health services, immunizations, health insurance questions, etc. https://my.wlu.edu/student-life/health-and-safety/student- health-and-counseling/student-health-center   Other mental health resources:        
Writing Center Assistance with writing projects, presentations, etc. https://my.wlu.edu/writing-program/writing-center
Peer Tutoring Academic assistance https://managementtools4.wlu.edu/PeerTutors/Default.aspx
Peer Counselors Peers who are knowledgeable about the kinds of emotional issues affecting students and campus resources https://my.wlu.edu/executive-committee/student- organization-resources/ec-recognized-student- organizations/peer-counseling
Student Activities Clubs, organizations, and events https://my.wlu.edu/student-life/student-activities
Career and Professional Development Career and professional development advising and resources https://my.wlu.edu/career-and-professional-development

Supporting International Students in the Classroom

Things to know about international students:

  • English may not be their first language and they may never have studied in an English-medium school before
  • They may not be familiar with U.S. classroom culture and etiquette   
  • They may be facing culture shock and cultural adjustment issues outside of class that may impact their academic performance
  • They may not be familiar with the academic support services available to them
  • They may not be familiar with US-centric examples and analogies

Tips for supporting international students: 

  • Clearly communicate course/ classroom expectations and policies early on
  • Allow for multiple forms of "participation" when possible
  • Be proactive in communicating with international students
  • Develop and use internationally diverse examples and analogies in the classroom
  • Continually encourage international students to make use of office hours
  • Encourage international students to ask questions since they might come from cultures where that is considered disrespectful.

External resource: