The reality faced by Korean international students in the United States and beyond
Stories of International Students in America
The experiences of Korean international students in the United States go beyond mere study abroad life. They are filled with stories of the adaptation process, struggles to find identity, and solidarity to overcome anxiety and loneliness. In the footsteps of students heading to class every morning, there lies their passion along with efforts and sorrows to persist despite language barriers, discriminatory gazes, and legal uncertainties.
The wall of language, the isolation of everyday life
In the process of preparing to become a study abroad student, many students in Korea obtain admission qualifications through certified English test scores. However, the actual language used in the United States is often very different from what is learned on the test. There are repeated feelings of helplessness when unable to understand jokes during lectures or having to remain silent during group presentations. There are many moments when one must gather their resolve just to order a cup of coffee. Many international students try to overcome these challenges in various ways, such as through ESL classes and conversation clubs, but the systematic support provided by schools is lacking. In a situation where the gap between academic English and everyday English remains significant, this sense of alienation often leads to academic stress.
The Fear of Asian Hate Crimes
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, hate crimes targeting Asian individuals have surged, leading to an increasingly vulnerable everyday life for international students. Provocative behavior or attempts at physical contact on the streets have now become part of the news. In this situation, the significant issue faced by international students is the lack of an adequate response system. Many international students are hesitant to report incidents due to concerns over their visa status, complicated immigration laws, and subsequent administrative burdens. While the international student support centers at schools provide some assistance, actual protective measures and connections with the local community are lacking.
Disconnection and Emotional Isolation
Another difficulty of studying abroad is the disruption of relationships. The emotional distance from family, the challenge of making local friends, and the competitiveness among international students make it hard to form connections. Therefore, emotional isolation can lead to depression, anxiety, and psychological lethargy. Many find it difficult to seek help from counseling centers, especially during graduate studies when they feel the burden of research, teaching assistant duties, and financial pressures. However, there is often fear that being open about these issues may negatively impact visa extensions, leading to internal struggles being concealed.
The meaning of self-organized communities
Nevertheless, Korean international students are forming self-sustaining communities for one another. The student communities, KakaoTalk open chats, church youth groups, and Korean student associations serve as the only spaces where they can share information and emotions. The valuable advice received here greatly aids in their daily lives. This voluntary network plays a role in filling in the gaps left by public systems, and especially, the Korean community within the local society provides material and emotional support, such as scholarships and moving assistance, becoming an important support system.
Growth Beyond Survival and Our Role
Amidst all these realities, international students are becoming increasingly resilient. Some international students raise their voices for immigrant rights through various civic organizations, while others attempt to drive change academically through minority studies. There are those who seek to convey the sentiments of Koreans to the world through culture and art, and others who bridge generational gaps through Korean language volunteer work. However, these efforts should not rely solely on individual strength. International students are valuable assets to the nation, and this issue should be addressed not on a personal level, but through public support. The various challenges faced by international students are not just their own problems.
Practical measures for international student care
It is necessary to strengthen the protection system for international students at the government level. Through the "Overseas Student Safety Support Center," the expansion of local emergency response hotlines, psychological counseling services, and legal advisory support should be implemented. Cultural and language integration programs should be mandated within educational institutions, and manuals related to safety should be prepared to provide appropriate information and support to international students. Moreover, it is essential to enhance connections with the local community and establish a cooperative system with the Korean community. By doing this, an environment should be created where international students can focus on their studies more safely and healthily.
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