Towards Implementing an Integrative Framework for Holistic International Student Support Services Across Student Affairs Divisions

This chapter provides examples of how U.S. higher education institutions can strategically plan to offer culturally responsive campus-wide support services to serve international students holistically. Nationwide, international student offices excel in immigration law compliance support, yet culturally responsive service models campus-wide are sparse. Instead, campuses use homogeneous student support services models that lack deliberate efforts to eliminate cultural biases towards international students from culturally complex backgrounds. Addressing this lacuna, we offer a framework to assist student affairs staff reform and reinvigorate service delivery to improve international students’ learning environment. The Integrative Framework for Holistic International Student Support Services (HISS) calls for training staff on intercultural competence, advancing campus cultural environment, and adopting foundational programing to engage international students on and beyond campus. The HISS framework is practical and adaptable across institution types and is designed to assist students to acclimate to their new environment and build a sense of belonging.