Multicultural Insights will be presenting the results of its study of academic mobility among Chinese graduate students during the 10th China and Globalization Forum, Global Talent Mobility and Governance Session in Beijing, China, on May 25, 2024.  This study aims to inform policy-makers in the US and China about the latest trends in “talent mobility” between the two countries. 

The qualitative component of this study included a series of focus groups aimed at clarifying the various aspects of students’ decision-making (including economic and career-focused considerations described in this series of blog posts). 

Another important topic of conversation included students’ experiences with cultural adaptation in a foreign country. The variety of experiences illustrates the multifaceted nature of the assimilation process, working alongside the desire to retain cultural identity among international students.

Multicultural Environments vs. Traditional American Culture

One of the key themes that emerged was the distinction between adapting to a multicultural city environment and assimilating into traditional American culture. Some participants living in larger cities described the ease of adaptation due to cities’ diverse cultural and interest-based communities. However, they noted that this experience might be different in less diverse areas, recalling anecdotes of friends experiencing feelings of exclusion in predominantly white institutions.

Another participant echoed this sentiment: “[I am adapted to] New York City specifically. If you are referring to the U.S. culture in terms of the white culture, I don’t think I’m adapted to it.”

Social Networks and Cultural Retention

Some participants preferred maintaining their Chinese cultural identity and social networks. One participant said, “Somehow, I decided I don’t have to assimilate. I just need to be aware of the culture.” They described their choice to not partake in traditional American cultural events and to maintain a social circle predominantly comprising Chinese friends.

In contrast, another participant spoke of a more assimilated experience, with most of their social circle being Americans, reflecting a deeper integration into American life.

Academic Environments as Cultural Melting Pots

Interestingly, the academic environment was highlighted as a unique space for cultural exchange. A few participants mentioned that international students from various countries form the majority in their graduate programs. This creates a uniquely multicultural environment, which participants value and feel that they won’t be able to replicate in their home country.

Some participants described their tendency to gravitate towards those with similar cultural backgrounds, even in multicultural settings. This was particularly evident in social situations like parties, where, despite being invited by American students, they conversed more with fellow Chinese or non-white attendees.

Seeking Support in Times of Need

When discussing support systems, participants varied regarding who they would turn to in times of need. While most would first seek support from close friends or family, others preferred professional help within the university. At the same time, one of the participants expressed distrust towards institutional support systems, including those set up by universities and the state: “I read some horror stories… that if you have some mental health issues, your visa may be revoked. So, if you try to commit suicide, you are no longer a student. Otherwise, if you do commit suicide, the university will have a huge problem. I’m not sure if my university would do that; I still have some trust in them; I think they probably wouldn’t, but generally, I don’t trust the institutions in society.”

Focus groups’ insights reveal that cultural adaptation among Chinese graduate students in the U.S. is not a uniform process but one marked by individual preferences, experiences, and the specific cultural environments they find themselves in. Whether choosing to assimilate, retain their cultural identity, or navigate a path in between, these students’ experiences underscore the multifaceted nature of cultural adaptation in an international context.