Feiran Wang and Amberlyn Yang
Our project, “ThriveSpace”, is a comprehensive mental health and wellness website specifically designed to support international students in US as they navigate the unique challenges of studying abroad. Recognizing the emotional, cultural, and academic adjustments that international students often face, the site provides a dedicated space for them to connect, share experiences, and access vital resources. “ThriveSpace” addresses key areas such as coping with culture shock, managing academic stress, and dealing with homesickness, offering tailored guidance and tools that meet these needs.
The platform includes interactive features like a story-sharing forum where students can safely express their experiences and insights while connecting with peers who understand their journey. Additionally, “ThriveSpace” includes a resource hub with tips on managing stress, adapting to new environments, and finding mental health services both on and off campus. It also provides guidance on navigating local mental health support systems, connecting students to counseling services, support groups, and culturally sensitive mental health professionals.
In developing “ThriveSpace”, I have gained a deep understanding of learning design principles, especially around empathy, inclusion, and accessibility. Creating a supportive space for international students has shown me that effective learning design must extend beyond academics to address the holistic needs of students, including their emotional and psychological well-being. This project has showed the importance of cultural sensitivity in design, ensuring that content is easily understood and resonates with students from diverse backgrounds. These elements are essential in fostering a supportive, empowering environment that encourages students to thrive in their academic and personal lives while studying abroad.
Image generated with ChatGPT. Prompt: generate an image related with providing mental health support to international students in US
