Stereotypes and Interaction Between Chinese International and American Students 

Carmen M. Cochran
Dr. Zhijun Wen and Dr. Bridget Thomas, Faculty Mentors

In the past decade, the number of Chinese international students attending American universities has skyrocketed; they now make up four percent of the entire student population. While this has the potential to strengthen the academic community in the United States, it also presents new challenges. Many researchers have studied how language differences and cultural adaptation lead to difficulty for Chinese students, with many students reporting high acculturative stress, isolation, and mental health concerns. However, few researchers have analyzed how racially and culturally-based prejudice affect Chinese students’ experience, calling into question whether American universities provide welcoming environments for international students. Using survey-based research, this study explores how stereotypes influence interactions between Chinese international students and their American peers and how to increase mutual understanding within the student population. To achieve this, universities must move past surface-level inclusivity, recognize misconceptions, and educate their faculty and students about cultural differences. 

Keywords: Chinese Studies, Chinese international students, stereotypes, racism, intercultural communication

Topic(s):Interdisciplinary Studies
Chinese

Presentation Type: Oral Presentation

Session: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA