“Honeymoon” acculturation orientation preferences of new international students: Influence of intercultural attitudes and intentions in an international learning environment

Research routinely suggests that international students often struggle in engaging with other student groups. This study, therefore, examines to what extent and how the intercultural attitudes intentions of new three Dutch educational institutions related their acculturation orientation preferences (AOPs) during “honeymoon” stage. Their AOPs were investigated across four social contact domains: living, schoolwork, friendships, general interactions. Using structural equation modelling, results from 198 respondents indicate predicted AOPs, multicultural integration most preferred strategy marginalization least preferred. Results a simple mediation analysis show mediated effect for adopting separation strategies. Interview findings 25 participants sometimes adopted different orientations domains. Internationally oriented higher education should further support planning