Learn about international students in your class

At the beginning of the semester, try to get to know your students:

1. Learn how to pronounce their names; although some international students use a westernized name, it is important to learn their preferred name and how to pronounce it.
2. Demonstrate an investment in their success by asking other questions that will give you a sense of their interests, strengths, motivations, and goals. This can be achieved through icebreaker(s) or orientation activities at the beginning of the semester, or through one-on-one meetings during your office hours.
3. Explain pronoun use to your students, as some international students may be unfamiliar with this concept; let them know they can privately communicate their preferred pronoun to you and avoid misgendering them or making gender assumptions.