It’s hard to be an international student. Away from home and the culture you grew

up with, you begin a new life in a country you don’t know much about. Thrust into this new environment, what lies ahead?

Augustana prides itself on its recruitment, with international students making up 20%

of the student body. However, diversity does not equate to support. 

At Augustana, international students often encounter microaggressions, virtual

hate and systemic barriers that make their college experiences more challenging than those of their domestic peers.

One of the most frustrating realities for them is the persistence of ignorance and stereotypes. As a student from Tunisia, I have received comments such as “You’re to white to be African” or “ Did you have phones back home?”

These hurtful statements reflect the lack of awareness about different cultures and demonstrate the monolithic view of Africa that erases the continent’s diversity and progress. It is as if, in some people’s minds, Africa only exists through the outdated media portrayals of poverty and primitiveness.

These sentiments can be encouraged to turn into anonymous cyberbullying and run rampant on social media platforms like YikYak. International students are subjected to xenophobic and racist remarks, including being photographed, published and made fun of. The comments often perpetuate racist stereotypes that belittle cultural identities of international students and leave them questioning their place in the community. 

The ability to hide behind a screen has given some the freedom to perpetuate stereotypes with impunity, which causes international students to feel unwelcome and unsafe. Since there are many contributing factors to why these comments are still allowed to circulate and sometimes applauded, it’s impossible to put complete blame on one. One reason could be due to a lack of inter-cultural dialogue and positive global exposure.

Many Americans grow up with limited exposure to different cultures around the world, which fosters ignorance manifested through microaggressions and exclusionary behavior. Efforts must go beyond celebrating international students in brochures and

websites. Education about different cultures and values should be encouraged and embraced.

International and domestic students should engage in meaningful discussions

about history, identity and global perspectives, outside of the mandatory classes they have to take. Talking with one another not only helps students widen their point of view, but also helps them become more accepting and welcoming.

Furthermore, the college should take a firm stance against hate speech, including cyberbullying, by implementing stronger policies to protect international students and prevent the hateful comments that they have to deal with daily.

Being an international student should not come with constantly defending our identities and proving our worth. We came to the United States to learn, grow and contribute to the campus community, not to face stereotyping and ignorance.

It’s time to move past stereotypes and embrace a more welcoming environment, where international students are not seen as outsiders, but as equal deserving members.