Finding Belonging: How International Students Build Connection in the Midwest
Presenter(s)
Iris Nickolaus
Abstract
International students often enter U.S. universities navigating unfamiliar cultural, social, and academic environments, which can make developing a sense of belonging more complex. Belonging plays a critical role in student well-being, academic success, and overall adjustment, particularly for students studying far from their home countries. Although prior research acknowledges that international students may experience challenges such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, and social isolation, less attention has been given to how everyday communication practices shape their sense of belonging. Specifically, there is a gap in understanding how students actively construct belonging through interpersonal interactions, relationships, and participation in campus life. The goal of this study is to examine how international students at Winona State University experience and build belonging through communication. Using an interpretive approach, this study is based on semi-structured interviews that explore how students form relationships, navigate cultural differences, and engage with both academic and social communities. Guided by Social Identity Theory, this research focuses on how students negotiate identity and group membership within a new cultural context. This study expects to identify key themes related to belonging, including the role of peer relationships, informal interactions, and campus involvement. It also aims to better understand how communication contributes to feelings of inclusion, connection, and identity development. These findings will offer insight into how universities can foster more supportive and inclusive environments for international students.
College
College of Liberal Arts
Department
Communication Studies
Campus
Winona
First Advisor/Mentor
Adam Gaffey
Location
Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States
Start Date
4-23-2026 10:00 AM
End Date
4-23-2026 11:00 AM
Presentation Type
Poster Session
Format of Presentation or Performance
In-Person
Session
1b=10am-11am
Poster Number
60
Finding Belonging: How International Students Build Connection in the Midwest
Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States
International students often enter U.S. universities navigating unfamiliar cultural, social, and academic environments, which can make developing a sense of belonging more complex. Belonging plays a critical role in student well-being, academic success, and overall adjustment, particularly for students studying far from their home countries. Although prior research acknowledges that international students may experience challenges such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, and social isolation, less attention has been given to how everyday communication practices shape their sense of belonging. Specifically, there is a gap in understanding how students actively construct belonging through interpersonal interactions, relationships, and participation in campus life. The goal of this study is to examine how international students at Winona State University experience and build belonging through communication. Using an interpretive approach, this study is based on semi-structured interviews that explore how students form relationships, navigate cultural differences, and engage with both academic and social communities. Guided by Social Identity Theory, this research focuses on how students negotiate identity and group membership within a new cultural context. This study expects to identify key themes related to belonging, including the role of peer relationships, informal interactions, and campus involvement. It also aims to better understand how communication contributes to feelings of inclusion, connection, and identity development. These findings will offer insight into how universities can foster more supportive and inclusive environments for international students.
Comments
Nickolaus, Iris Y