International students at California Baptist University represent a wide variety of countries, including Brazil, South Korea and India. They bring diverse cultures to campus, enriching the CBU community with traditions from their home countries.
These students offer unique perspectives and insights, introducing their peers to customs and identities different from those in the U.S.
Courtney Watson, senior director of International Student and Scholar Services, highlighted the 56 countries represented at CBU and the authenticity international students bring to campus.
“The culture that international students bring to our campus is a taste of authenticity,” Watson said.
This authenticity is evident in events such as festivals of color and cultural cafes, which celebrate international traditions.
Rafaela Gois, junior political science major from Brazil, shared how she incorporates Brazilian culture into her life at CBU by greeting friends with hugs and cheek kisses and giving gifts to her roommates. She also introduces them to her favorite Brazilian soda, Guarana.
“I bring my culture through cooking. I like to cook for my international and American friends so they can try my favorite food,” Gois said.
She also expressed joy in bringing her culture to CBU by keeping phrases in Portuguese rather than translating them.
“I usually don’t say hi to people; I always say ‘Oi!’ I never say bye; I always say ‘Ciao!’ It’s funny because many of my friends and my FYE students have started saying ‘oi’ and ‘ciao’ to everyone, and I’m like, yes! I made my influence,” Gois said.
Culture shock is common among international students. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a state of distress or disorientation brought about by sudden immersion in or subjection to an unfamiliar culture.”
Watson explained that international students experience culture shock even if they have visited the U.S. before. They often find food portions larger, see fewer people walking or using public transportation, and notice cultural differences in how Americans interact.
“Depending on the culture they come from, international students either find Americans cold and hard to get to know, or, on the opposite side, they find them very friendly, like smiling at people they don’t know,” Watson said.
American culture emphasizes individualism, as seen in early settlers who ventured west and modern entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs. In contrast, countries like India emphasize family and community.
According to Cultural Atlas, India has strong collectivist values. Indians rely on their communities for support and avoid conflict that could reflect poorly on their families. Self-imposed social rules help maintain harmony.
India’s cultural diversity is also significant. Parth Kadam, kinesiology graduate student from Mumbai, described how people from around the world come to his home city for various reasons. He was surprised by the religious atmosphere at CBU compared to what he knew in India.
“I always thought India was the most religious country, but when I came to CBU and saw the culture here, I was surprised that people are equally religious and faithful,” Kadam said.
International students also face language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings. Kadam shared how accents made communication difficult at first.
“For my first semester, it was always difficult when I had to place an order where they took your name. They always spelled my name wrong, and I almost considered using an English name to make it easier. Eventually, people try to understand, and the effort is valued,” Kadam said.
Gois had a different experience, saying she adjusted easily to CBU because of the welcoming staff and students. However, she did experience cultural differences, such as how often she showers.
“My roommates think I’m crazy. ‘Three showers a day? That’s wild. You don’t have to,’” Gois said.
Culture shock affects every international student differently, shaping their experiences in unique ways.
Watson expressed hope for the International Center to continue serving as a safe space for students from diverse backgrounds.
“We also hope to see our international student population grow. It will be exciting to welcome students from countries not yet represented on campus,” Watson said.
She also encouraged students to visit the International Center.
International students at CBU bring rich, diverse stories about their experiences. They share their cultures, form friendships, and introduce others to their languages, food, and traditions, creating a more globally connected campus.
