Chinese International Students, UK Universities, and Adaptation

In the wake of growing internationalisation of higher education and the rising number of Chinese students studying abroad, this book examines how higher education institutions can better support this student population, and innovatively uses Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to offer a unique, in-depth exploration of the subjective experiences of these students.Based on extensive data collected over a three-year period, the book features first-hand experience from interviews which explored the personal challenges and strategies employed by students to manage their mental health, wellbeing, and academic performance in a foreign environment. Chapters showcase successful cultural adaptation strategies employed by Chinese students, further enhancing cultural competence by explaining how Chinese cultural values influence students' approaches to wellbeing and academic success.The book also features a discussion of international students’ the physical and psychological challenges experienced by international students during the COVID-19 pandemic, ultimately presenting evidence-based research recommendations that can be applied to improve support services for international students worldwide.