This paper introduces and describes a mixed methods research project conducted with international doctoral students from Non-Western countries that explored students and faculty members' experiences in a writing workshop. In this "Perspectives" piece, we offer insight into our journey of fostering relationships with our students and improving our teaching practice through a renewed awareness of culture's role in education. The findings suggest that despite struggles related to differing academic backgrounds, the workshop provided opportunities for faculty and students to build relationships and expand their understandings of cultural differences.