In the face of a stranger: Possibilities of an effective cross-cultural contact (Example of Bursa Uludağ University)

Building on different theories of intercultural adaptation, contact hypothesis and Bochner's (1977) functional model for the development of overseas students' friendship patterns this thesis examines the friendship networks of bachelor's, master's and PhD international students in Turkey concentrating primarily on the facilitating and hindering factors which influence the formation of their friendships with Turkish students. Moreover, the impact of the frequent contact with host nationals on students' psychological, sociocultural and academic adaptation was analyzed. Finally, based on the approach of the Interactive Acculturation Model, the opinions and cultural awareness of Turkish students was also examined and compared with the narratives of the international students. The research was conducted at Bursa Uludag University as a longitudinal interactive culture research combining qualitative (semi-structured in-depth interviews, documentary photography, storytelling) and quantitative research (survey) methods. Our findings have shown that the international students made friends more with their co-nationals and had limited interactions with Turkish students. However, contrary to the Bochner's model, this tendency was seen as a natural consequence of the students' coping with the situation they faced in Turkey rather than their main preference. As for the students with close Turkish friends they showed more interest in Turkish culture, better sociocultural adaptation and higher satisfaction with their stay in Turkey. Turkish students also indicated their interest in different cultures and intercultural interaction, but it did not correspond with their behaviour in practice. In conclusion, responsible institutions (e.g. university, dormitories) were recommended to implement programs that promote the benefits of intercultural interaction and cultural awareness as well as more effective cultural exchange among foreign and Turkish students.