Unfulfilled Expectations: Influence of Chinese International Students’ Roommate Relationships on Sense of Belonging

• Main Author: Christina W. Yao
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Journal of International Students 2016-07-01
• Series: Journal of International Students
• Subjects: Chinese students; international students; roommate relationships; sense of belonging; residence life
• Online Access: http://ojed.org/index.php/jis/article/view/355

Findings from this study indicate that more attention must be given to Chinese students’ interpersonal relationships with domestic students, particularly when considering the role of daily cross-cultural interactions in residential living. Participants who wanted American roommates anticipated an easier transition to U.S. culture. However, making meaningful connections with American students proved to be more challenging than anticipated. Participants reported that cultural differences within their residence hall room led to difficulty with communication and social connections.