International Medical Students’ Adaptation to University Life in Egypt: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Adaptation to university life is a challenging process especially when studying medicine. To facilitate and improve the process of adaptation of undergraduate medical students during their university life, different barriers and challenges should be addressed to create an effective academic and social support system. Objective(s): This study aims to explore the factors affecting the adaptation of international medical school students to university life in Egypt. Methods: All first-year undergraduate international students studying at medical school Ain Shams University were invited to join the focus group sessions. Five focus group discussions were conducted till data saturation was reached. Results: Our study included 34 international students (Arabs and Non-Arabs). Three main themes, nine subthemes, and thirty-four codes were generated. The motivation theme included: studying medicine and studying in Egypt. The acculturative stress theme included: subthemes of cultural differences, accommodation conditions, longing for family, and language differences. The students’ adaptation to school themes included: the subthemes of successful integration, as well as personal/ emotional and academic adaptation. Conclusion: Our study findings highlighted significant issues regarding adapting international students to university life in Egypt. Academic, cultural, language and accommodation support are essential for successful adaptation and integration into both academic and social life.

Keywords

• students’ adaptation
• university life
• egypt
• qualitative study