Wellness,support systems for international students at HAAGA-HELIA university of applied sciences

Abstract

Adjusting to different environment is common among international students. The practical adaptation problems are academic, financial, language, housing, cultural shock and integration. Being social is important in improving academic performance and lifelong learning. Personal and social problems that occur in a student’s life affect most students in the areas of peer acceptance, social activities, integration that leads to depression and students dropping out from school eventually. HH through the wellbeing services provides counseling, activities and support but most international students neglect these services. International students should have better understanding of self-awareness, social awareness, responsible decision-making, self-management and relationship management skills. All these will lead to a better feeling of social acceptance, social perception, social integration and contribution. This gives a holistic feeling of wellness prevents depression and dropping out while studying at HAAGA –HELIA university of applied sciences. A structured interview session was conducted with specific members of the well-being services of HH in May 2013. The interviewed shared their experiences, personal thoughts and offered different recommendations that are of use to both the student and the University. The content analysis method of coding was used to summarize and arrive at the findings from the interview. Keywords, International students, wellness,integration,peer support and HAAGA-HELIA wellbeing services.