The subjects of this qualitative research study are seven undergraduate international students between the ages of 18-25 at an urban, private university in the northeast of the United States. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was the methodology employed in this study. The data was analyzed by using Pettigrew's (1998) reformulated contact theory. This study sought to understand and make sense of the intercultural experiences of international students. The population of international students studying in colleges and universities in the US has significantly increased over the years. Many international students are attending higher education institutions in the US because of the high quality of education and increased job opportunities after graduation. Participants in this study reported difficulties with adjusting to their new environment. Because of changes in the higher education landscape, it is imperative for administrators, faculty, and staff to develop strategies to assist this population of students. This study indicated that more research needs to be done on ameliorating the social, academic, and cultural experiences of international students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]