Northern Cyprus has increasingly become a focus for international students, with universities offering English-language programmes and relatively low tuition fees. But the promise of studying abroad often comes with social and emotional challenges that can deeply affect students’ well-being and performance – particularly during their first year.
Recognise the symptoms of struggle
I frequently notice in my own academic setting that struggling overseas students have a tendency to socially isolate themselves. They might stop attending classes, become less involved or withdraw from university activities. The warning signs include learners who avoid group projects, stay silent for extended durations or seem nervous even when performing routine tasks, such as requesting directions or purchasing groceries.
Building bridges with small steps
I’ve found that just striking up a conversation is one of the best ways to provide support. Greeting them warmly, asking how they’re doing or even offering to help them with a chore, like opening a bank account, can make a big difference. The kind advice of an older classmate who toured me around campus while I was a student had a long-lasting effect.
In this sense, mentoring programmes have proved helpful. To assist newcomers in navigating the academic, social and administrative facets of student life, we match them with senior students – both domestic and international. These connections often develop into friendships.
Support for languages as a gateway
Turkish is the language of daily life in Northern Cyprus, even though English is used for teaching. We offer university-wide Turkish language courses to the overseas fresher students, providing students with a base of Turkish language grammar and introducing them to daily conversations in Turkish. I’ve seen how students gain the confidence to shop, ask for directions and interact with locals after just a few weeks of learning the basics of Turkish.
Supporting international students is crucial, but it’s equally important to support international employees. Plus, providing English-language support to non-international students and staff fosters a more equitable intercultural environment on campus.
Putting intention into integration
I’ve found that planning cultural exchange activities, such as student storytelling sessions, language cafes and international food nights, have always helped to further inclusivity. These events give local and foreign students a chance to socialise in a laid-back setting and frequently result in lifelong connections.
I participated in an initiative where students from all backgrounds prepared and shared a traditional supper in pairs. They were able to respectfully and practically learn about each other’s cultures in addition to helping to break the ice. Gatherings like these lessen the imperceptible barriers that occasionally form between student communities.
Important institutional support
Use more proactive and responsive communication techniques to help students more effectively. Creating WhatsApp or Telegram help groups to provide rapid access to answers on housing, academic procedures or health services is one improvement that I’ve found works well.
If the process is straightforward and intimate, students are more inclined to seek assistance. International students’ opinions are also guaranteed to be heard when they are represented on decision-making committees like student councils. This representation results in more informed university policies and helps close gaps.
Stress reduction and mental health
It might be very difficult to adapt to a new academic system and culture. Counselling services that are easily accessible and culturally relevant are the most beneficial to students, in my experience. Workshops that are welcoming, and that include topics like time management, handling stress or mindfulness, are crucial. When we asked graduates to share their personal adjustment experiences, we received a lot of favourable feedback. New students find solace and inspiration in seeing that others have encountered, and overcome, similar challenges.
Formal initiatives and substantial expenditures are not always necessary to make international students feel supported and welcomed. The difference is made by tiny, consistent acts, such as sincere discussions, inclusive gatherings and easily available information. Guarantee that your international students not only arrive, but also feel like they belong, by encouraging deliberate conversation and making space for interpersonal connections.
Sarvenaz Safavi is a lecturer in the department of public relations and advertising at Near East University.
If you would like advice and insight from academics and university staff delivered direct to your inbox each week, sign up for the Campus newsletter.