An Examination of the Stress Experiences International Students Face in American Universities

Abstract

The stress sources and levels of international students studying at American universities were investigated in relation to their class-standing, gender, and English language fluency. The research results indicated that the number one stressor for female students was “Concerns about the future (graduation, employment, marriage, etc.)”. Whereas, the number one stressor for males was related to “Academic burdens (grades, difficult classes, excessive homework, etc.).” A significant difference between males and females was observed with respect to an “Inadequate orientation program for newcomers at the university”. It was also found that male students had a higher average than female students. Regarding a "Inadequate orientation programme for newcomers at the university," a clear difference was seen between freshmen and seniors. This finding indicated that freshmen had a far greater need for orientation than seniors did. It was found that the relationship between stress levels and English language proficiency was at medium level, adverse and significant. It was discovered that the stress level did not significantly change with respect to gender. The stress level of freshmen was found to be higher than senior and graduate students at a significant level. The results were interpreted in terms of dominant literature and Singles Counselling Theory. Some suggestions were offered to counselling centers, international offices, English preparatory programs and instructors of universities.