Project title:
A taste of home: supporting international students with dietary change and homesickness
[We] Will explore the role of… Food, memories, histories, and traditions, in relation to the wellbeing of international students… The project will culminate with a food event.
Researcher:
Dr Sue Reeves
School of Life Sciences
University of Roehampton
Dr Yuwei Lin
School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
University of Roehampton
Project proposal:
Transitioning to a university in a new country is a complex process and previous research has reported that international students may have concerns regarding accommodation, transport, financial issues, as well as changes to food and diet; all of which can exacerbate feelings of homesickness.
Nutrition is key for health and physical wellbeing, but food is more than healthy eating, it can have an evocative effect, the smell and taste can be linked to memories and wellbeing, whilst at the same time holding the ability to manifest and maintain cultures. Food can also be a way to bring communities together. Furthermore, digital food cultures such as sharing food images online can illuminate everyday digital food politics and their social, cultural and ethical impacts.
Through focus group discussions, dietary analysis and the curation of food images and recipes we will explore the role of food, food memories, histories and traditions, in relation to the wellbeing of international students. We will consider the challenges to achieving a healthy diet in an unfamiliar environment, assess diet quality, support international students, and strengthen communities. The project will culminate with a food event to share the findings.
Photo by Debbie Tea on Unsplash
Themes:
Enabling transformational change
Encouraging the arts
Seeking justice
Promoting wellbeing
Nurturing rooted communities
Thinking globally
Amplifying voices