Being an International Student in Zonguldak: Adaptation, Feelings, Benefits, and Challenges

Abstract

The aim of this study was to reveal students’ feelings, thoughts, challenges, and opinions about studying in Zonguldak as an international student. Case study design was employed in this qualitative study, and it was conducted with 15 international students studying in different disciplines in ZBEUN in the academic year of 2021-2022. The data were collected using a semi-structured interview form developed by the researchers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to-face in a predetermined place, and the collected qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis method. It was found that the findings obtained from the opinions of the international students are covered under the themes of feelings, expectations, benefits, circle of friends, adaptation, application process, school life, plans for the future, and challenges. Also, various sub-themes were identified under these themes.

Understanding International Students’ Academic Adaptation and Motivation to Pursue Higher Education in Turkey

“…On the one hand, the analysis indicates that students can acquire information about university projects, actively participate in university orientation programs, actively participate in activities (social, sports, artistic, cultural) with faculty members, and share concerns with teaching staff. This result aligns with existing literature (Alghamdi & Otte, 2016;Tekin & Orhan, 2023;Tsang & Yuan, 2022), highlighting the significance of active engagement in academic events for the development of home and global competencies. On the other hand, the students had some difficulties engaging in academic events (conferences, scientific meetings, conferences, seminars), benefiting from student communities at the university, and taking on roles in university committees.…”

“…Several additional studies have highlighted the challenges faced by international students in adapting to a new language (Oyar, 2021;Şeker, 2020). Moreover, challenges faced by students in Turkish higher education were also investigated, including adjusting to a new environment, making friends, understanding local customs and norms, communication, and discrimination (Aydın, 2021;O zog lu et al, 2015;Tekin & Orhan, 2023;Yilmazel & Atay, 2022).…”

“…Consequently, understanding international students' adjustment is essential for developing higher education and support strategies for these students. However, the existing literature on international students is largely grounded in interviews, which may not fully capture the complexity and dynamics of students' decision-making processes (Arief & Melati, 2017;Tekin & Orhan, 2023;Tutar, 2023). Moreover, there is a gap in the literature concerning mixed studies of international students who choose Turkey as their study destination.…”

“…However, several antecedent investigations highlight that the motivations-prompting international students to choose Turkey as a study destination are subject to various challenges. These challenges include linguistic obstacles, difficulties in acclimatizing to the social milieu, economic constraints, and the transition to life abroad (Go nu ltaş et al, 2023;Oyar, 2021;Tekin & Orhan, 2023;Yig it, 2022;Yilmazel & Atay, 2022). Hence, the apprehension of international students' perspectives and their use of global opportunities assumes paramount significance in evaluating their academic adaptation.…”

“…It is considered crucial for ensuring the academic success and quality education of international students, as those who adapt well tend to achieve better academic outcomes (Alghamdi & Otte, 2016;Gokpinar-Shelton & Pike, 2022;Go nu ltaş et al, 2023). Turkey, being a popular destination for international students, offers excellent education, a multicultural life, and a friendly environment (Ercan, 2019;Eynullayeva et al, 2021;Karakaya-Özyer & Yildiz, 2020;Tekin & Orhan, 2023). The number of international students in Turkey has steadily increased over the years, driven by various factors, including geographical, cultural, historical, religious, and ethnic affinities, which play a significant role in international students' decisions about studying in Turkey (Aydın, 2021;Hosgorur & Aysel, 2022;O zog lu et al, 2015).…”