The Integration of International Chinese Students Into Local Singaporean Community

Abstract

With the development of Chinese economy, a number of students choosing overseas schools for their studies are on the go and China has become a huge market of students for international education providers. However, some destinations for international education have declined in number of Chinese students in recent years, such as the US.More students tend to go to a country that does not only speak English, but also has the similar culture with their own country like Singapore. The objective of this paper is to find out the level of integration of international Chinese students into local Singaporean communities. Specifically, the research focuses on how international Chinese students interact with local Chinese communities and other local residents through activities, such as participating and volunteering in local Chinese events/festivals or public spaces. In addition, it also explores mutual feelings between the Chinese students and the local Singaporean community. Subsequently, the paper also examines about how friendships, institutions, and motivations influence Chinese students' integrations into the local community. Data were obtained primarily through surveys and face-to-face interview. Also, towards the conclusion, the paper gives some preliminary suggestions to engage more international Chinese students and bond them closer to the local community in order to create the best experience during their stay and study in Singapore.