Saudi Arabian university student cultural integration: an analysis of international student experiences and domestic student perceptions

Abstract

How can we encourage social and cultural exchange among domestic and international student populations to encourage empathy, thoughtfulness, and strong international relationships? I use mere exposure and social exchange theories with interviews and surveys to qualitatively and quantitatively study the barriers to cultural integration of Saudi Arabian students and domestic students. 1) Mere exposure to Saudi Arabian students correlates with domestic students perceiving Saudi Arabian students more positively; 2) Mere exposure to Saudi Arabian students correlates to the fostering of a sense of relatability among domestic students 3) Mere exchange could lead to greater socialization between Saudi Arabian international students and domestic students at UW-Stout.