The Chronicle of Higher Education reports that U.S. colleges and universities are putting increased efforts into easing foreign students’ transition into American college life and integrating them both academically and socially. Schools are now focusing more strongly on engaging all students on their campuses in orientation, as well as organizing social and academic programs that bring domestic and foreign students together.

While some colleges have created programs that match American students with international students to help improve language skills and learn about each other’s cultures, others have started focusing on off-campus activities. Northcentral Technical College in Wisconsin, for example, has begun to work with families who assume mentoring functions for international students. Encouraging foreign students to volunteer in their communities can be another way for them to build connections with other people.

The article quotes Allan E. Goodman, president of the Institute of International Education (IIE), who states:

“It really is a continuous process of checking in with international students and making sure they’re not in over their heads.”