In conclusion, this study has limitations, the main one being that this paper is based on the reflections of one UK student and his experiences as an international student in Hong Kong for a week. However, the insights that have been identified reflect findings in the literature, but are elaborated upon, bringing in not only cognitive reflections but also affective reflections, which adds value to the subject.
Transition to higher education is an issue for all students, but is particularly acute for international students who do not understand the academic or cultural norms of their host institution or country. It is incumbent on faculty members to ensure that there is academic and social integration for all students so that they can work together effectively in the international classroom and in multicultural groups thereby ensuring mutual learning and the gaining of intercultural competencies that are crucial in a global environment. Therefore more care should be taken with the induction period, in ensuring that all students understand what is expected from them on their course of study and where diversity is valued, interactions are respectful, where all opinions are appreciated and participation is encouraged. For this to occur there need to be development sessions for all faculty members, which would focus on intercultural communication and competencies enabling the introduction of relevant sessions, such as those identified in Bennett’s model (1986), being incorporated into the curriculum. This would enable all students to move from being ethnocentric to ethnorelative and thus able to take full advantage of the international classroom.