ABSTRACT
This paper explores the growing need for universities to address cultural clashes faced by international students. Cultural clashes are common, and they generate friction between students and institutions. Mediation, a structured conflict resolution process led by a neutral facilitator, is presented here as a useful tool for navigating these cultural complexities. By emphasizing shared interests over opposing positions and separating people from the problem, mediation supports constructive communication and intercultural competence. This paper draws on recent studies to examine the role of mediation in promoting international student adjustment. Those studies underscore the role of mediators in facilitating cross-cultural communication and mitigating acculturation stress among international students. By equipping students with communication tools and fostering empathy, mediation offers a promising avenue for supporting international student success.
Keywords
International students, cultural conflicts, intercultural competence, conflict resolution, acculturation stress