5 Ways to Better Build Community with International Students in Canada

5 Ways to Better Build Community with International Students in Canada

Canada’s reputation as a multicultural and welcoming nation is reflected in its vibrant university campuses, which are home to a diverse range of international students. However, a growing gap exists between government and university policies that emphasize the value of intercultural learning and the actual experiences of these students. This discrepancy is underscored by recent concerns over the federal government’s two-year cap on international student permits, which threatens to disrupt the multicultural fabric of Canadian higher education.

Despite strategic priorities aimed at internationalizing higher education—such as incorporating global perspectives into curricula and fostering international collaborations—research reveals that the experiences of international students often fall short of these ideals. This gap highlights the need for more effective strategies to engage international students and integrate them into campus communities meaningfully.

Considering this, here are five practical ways universities can enhance community-building with international students and ensure that their educational experiences align with Canada’s multicultural values.

1. Building Translation Communities

International students bring a wealth of linguistic diversity to Canadian campuses. By leveraging these language skills, universities can foster community engagement and support local organizations through translation services.

For instance, the Language Bank Program at the University of Michigan provides translation services to non-profit organizations and community groups. Similarly, Canadian universities can create initiatives like “Translate-A-Thon” events, where international students, alongside faculty and professional translators, collaborate on translation projects.

Such initiatives not only help local communities but also offer international students’ opportunities to develop professional skills and gain confidence. Participating in these projects allows them to contribute meaningfully to their new surroundings, reinforcing their sense of belonging and purpose.

2. Co-Producing Podcasts

Podcasts are a powerful medium for sharing stories and perspectives. By co-producing podcasts with both international and domestic students, universities can create platforms for dialogue and mutual understanding.

International students often face stereotypes and biases, which podcasts can help address by highlighting their unique experiences and cultural backgrounds. Collaborative podcasting projects allow students to explore shared interests, challenge misconceptions, and educate their peers about global issues.

For example, a podcast series featuring international students discussing their cultural traditions, academic challenges, and personal journeys can bridge gaps between different student groups. This approach not only fosters intercultural understanding but also provides a creative outlet for students to express themselves and connect with others.

3. Implementing Curriculum Design Labs

Curriculum design labs offer an innovative way to involve students in the creation of educational materials. By engaging international and local students in designing course content, universities can ensure that curricula reflect diverse perspectives and address global issues.

An example of this approach is the Content Creation Lab of the Global Nomads Group, which allows youth to design courses focused on Sustainable Development Goals. Adapting this model to higher education, universities can establish curriculum design labs where students contribute to developing classroom activities, assignments, and projects.

These labs provide international students with a platform to share their knowledge and experiences, while also fostering empathy and understanding among all participants. Involving students in curriculum design not only enriches the educational experience but also promotes a more inclusive learning environment.

4. Developing Mentorship Programs

Mentorship programs can play a crucial role in supporting international students as they navigate their academic and personal lives in a new country. Effective mentorship goes beyond traditional models by fostering reciprocal learning and collaboration between mentors and mentees.

One innovative approach is to involve senior international students in mentorship roles, where they provide guidance and support to newcomers. This peer-to-peer mentorship helps international students adjust to their new environment while also empowering them with leadership skills.

Furthermore, universities can establish mentorship programs that facilitate interactions between students and faculty or staff. For example, the Student Experience Mentorship Program at the University of Toronto pairs students with mentors from various university departments. By including international students in such programs, universities can gain valuable insights into their experiences and challenges, leading to more informed and empathetic approaches to internationalization.

5. Seeking International Students’ Perspectives

To effectively address the needs and concerns of international students, universities must actively seek their input on policies and practices related to internationalization. Traditional evaluation methods often focus on academic performance and graduation rates, overlooking the broader experiences of international students.

Universities should implement regular surveys and focus groups to gather feedback from international students about their experiences and perceptions of internationalization. This data can inform the development of policies and resources that better support their academic and personal needs.

For example, universities can conduct annual questionnaires to assess students’ satisfaction with support services, academic programs, and campus life. Additionally, focus groups can provide deeper insights into specific challenges faced by international students, such as cultural adjustment, social integration, and career development.

By prioritizing the voices of international students, universities can create more effective and responsive strategies that enhance their overall experience and contribute to a more inclusive campus community.

bridging the gap between internationalization policies and the actual experiences of international students requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes meaningful engagement and support. By implementing strategies such as building translation communities, co-producing podcasts, establishing curriculum design labs, developing innovative mentorship programs, and seeking students’ perspectives, universities can create a more inclusive and vibrant environment for international students. These initiatives not only enrich the educational experience for all students but also align with Canada’s commitment to fostering multiculturalism and global understanding.

By addressing these gaps, Canadian universities can ensure that international students not only thrive academically but also feel a genuine sense of belonging and contribution to their new communities.