Pros and Cons of Multicultural Students’ Relationship in an International Higher Education Institution Residential Set-Up: A Case Study

Abstract

International educational institutions are customarily flocked by multicultural students who usually end up staying together in the same residential area. Higher education institutions in the Philippines are no exception to the influx of multicultural students. Perceptions of challenges in multicultural students’ residential areas differ based on students’ cultures. Yet, the host schools need to cater to such differences. The social identity theory categorizes these statuses as “contact, disintegration, reintegration, pseudo independence, immersion-emersion, and autonomy.” This classical case study seeks to examine the multicultural relations of international students residing at a private institution campus using a focus group and individual interviews focusing on the status. Research respondents are student residents. Findings showed the pros and cons of multicultural human relations. The study concludes with recommendations for a better interpersonal, academic relationship in a multicultural set-up.