International Student Adaptation to a U.S. College: A Mixed Methods Exploration of the Impact of a Specialized First-Year Course at a Large Midwestern Institution

This mixed methods study assessed a first-year course for international students, entitled the U.S. Education and Culture, at a large Midwestern public institution. The quantitative results indicated that participation in the course improved students’ academic skills, psychosocial development, understanding of social diversity in the U.S., use of university resources, and academic and social engagement. The qualitative analysis identified challenges faced by participants, their sources of motivation, the acculturation process, psychosocial development, and strategies for success.