Document Type

Essay

Publication Date

10-7-2024

Abstract

Research has indicated that food accessibility and cultural food preference play a crucial role in creating a sense of belonging for international students in higher education. The recent Sodexo survey (2019) indicated 83% of international students feel that accessibility to cultural food was an important factor, and 61% indicated that not having access to food that is familiar makes them feel less connected to the community. This paper examines specific food barriers that international students experience at DePauw University and how such issues influence community integration and a general sense of belonging. It synthesizes earlier research with campus-specific data to outline the pressing factors that contribute to dietary isolation and its subsequent consequences for student well-being and campus engagement. Given these challenges, this paper suggests some new initiatives such as the “Flavors of the Month” dinner and the “Shared Plates, Shared Stories” cultural dining festival. These programs would help make the campus more inclusive by instituting intercultural dialogue — bridging the gaps with food experiences shared. In response to food concerns voiced by students, DePauw Student Affairs could cultivate closer relationships internally, thus ensuring that all students would feel welcome on campus. The results thus showed that culturally responsive dining services could greatly enhance campus community cohesiveness while engendering an inclusive environment for all students.

Comments

Completed as part of Professor John Mark Day's FYS "Creating Community and Building Belonging"

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