Uncharted Waters: Academic and Cultural Adaptation and Migration Dilemmas of Bangladeshi International Students in the USA

Bangladeshi students are among the fastest-growing groups of international students in the United States. Yet little is known about how they navigate academic pressure, cultural adjustment, and political unrest back home. This mixed-methods study surveyed thirty Bangladeshi undergraduate and graduate students across multiple U.S. universities. Findings show that students often struggle with language barriers and adapt to classroom expectations, which intensify academic stress. Many also face challenges in building friendships and accessing support services. Political instability contributes to anxiety about returning to Bangladesh and concern for family safety. Meanwhile, better security, career opportunities, and research prospects in the U.S. lead many to consider staying after graduation, though some postpone the decision until completing their studies. The study underscores the need for targeted language support, culturally responsive advising, accessible mental health services, and clearer post-graduation pathways to help students manage academic and political challenges while pursuing higher education in the U.S.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Sociology

Grantor

Texas Woman's University

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Datta, Prianka

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Sadri, Mahmoud

Committee member dc:contributor.committeemember

• Williams, James

• Political situation in Bangladesh
• Migration dilemmas
• Push-pull factors for migration of international students
• Language barriers
• Social isolation
• Acculturation
• Bangladeshi international students
• Academic adaptation
• Cultural adaptation
• Political instability
• Migration
• Quota reform movement

Language dc:language.iso

English

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/11274/17311

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:twu-ir.tdl.org:11274/17311