<p>As for my experience, the problem arises from the combination of these:
Strict academic environment + stereotypes on asians + introverted character
The academic environment limits a student from socializing outside the academic circle. In USA, even in places like MIT, most students do not socialize through academics. The stereotype adds to the difficulty because non-asians will usually not approach asians spontaneously. So, with introverted character combined, it becomes hard to have some fun with your friends.
That is why I many times disagree that Asians studying in America is less stressful than studying hardcore in Asia. In Asian, none of these aforementioned issues exist, not even the first one because a lot of people socialize through academic circles</p>