1. Rising International Student Enrollment: Over recent decades, there has been a significant increase in the enrollment of international students in U.S. higher education institutions. A comprehensive examination of their experiences indicates that these students navigate complex challenges across academic, social, and cultural realms. Qualitative interviews highlight specific academic struggles such as communication barriers with faculty and peers.

2. Addressing Isolation and Cultural Adjustment: The interaction with various group activities often culminates in social isolation for international students. Additionally, they face the daunting task of adapting to diverse ways of thinking and practices prevalent in the U.S. To surmount these hurdles, students primarily rely on university-provided resources and support systems.

3. The Need for Holistic Support: While universities are adept at meeting the academic needs of international students, there is a noticeable gap in social and cultural integration support. There is a pressing need for universities to implement comprehensive strategies and resources that embrace and assist international students from the moment they arrive.

In this context, "Connet" emerges as a pivotal platform, offering a unique space for international students to connect, share experiences, and access a wealth of resources tailored to their specific needs. This app aims to bridge the gaps left by traditional university support systems, ensuring that international students receive the holistic support they require to thrive in their new environment.

Reference: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/edri/2015/202753/