Understanding International Students' Collective Experiences at an American University
Primary Faculty Mentor’s Name
Dr. Danilo M. Baylen
Proposal Track
Student
Session Format
Paper Presentation
Abstract
Global student mobility is on the increase. While there are plenty of statistics about international students, it is important to collect more information about their perceptions and experiences in deciding to pursue studies abroad. This case study was conducted to better understand international students who attend a university in southeastern United States. This study focused on four questions: 1) What motivates students from other countries to pursue studies in the United States? 2) What types of activities are pursued by students from foreign countries in seeking educational opportunities abroad? 3) What types of coping strategies do international students practice? 4) What are the cultural adjustments that international students undergo? Data was collected from online surveys that were completed by thirty-two international students enrolled at the university. Survey contained thirty-eight questions relating to one’s motivation to pursue studies in the United States, the preparation process involved, and the coping strategies and cultural adjustments they make as a student in an American university. Collected data was coded and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Content analysis was applied to qualitative data collected, for common themes and patterns. Findings of the study reported that there are multiple factors influencing students’ motivation, including but not limited to finances, personal goals and perceived value of education. Respondents described that the planning process was intensive and complex. They recounted employing creative coping strategies and making compromises on cultural adjustments. The study showed that the international students experience multiple levels of emotional, cultural and communication challenges upon arrival in the United States to pursue their studies. The results of the study also provided information that will be beneficial to higher education staff and faculty members in helping international students make better adjustments in the new environment. It is recommended that this research be expanded to include more participation of international students at this university and beyond.
Keywords
International students, Motivation, Cultural adjustment, Planning, Coping strategies, Diversity
Award Consideration
1
Location
Room 2904
Presentation Year
2014
Start Date
11-15-2014 8:30 AM
End Date
11-15-2014 9:30 AM
Publication Type and Release Option
Presentation (Open Access)
Recommended Citation
Michael, V. Michelle, "Understanding International Students' Collective Experiences at an American University" (2014). Georgia Undergraduate Research Conference (2014-2015). 10.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/gurc/2014/2014/10
Understanding International Students' Collective Experiences at an American University
Room 2904
Global student mobility is on the increase. While there are plenty of statistics about international students, it is important to collect more information about their perceptions and experiences in deciding to pursue studies abroad. This case study was conducted to better understand international students who attend a university in southeastern United States. This study focused on four questions: 1) What motivates students from other countries to pursue studies in the United States? 2) What types of activities are pursued by students from foreign countries in seeking educational opportunities abroad? 3) What types of coping strategies do international students practice? 4) What are the cultural adjustments that international students undergo? Data was collected from online surveys that were completed by thirty-two international students enrolled at the university. Survey contained thirty-eight questions relating to one’s motivation to pursue studies in the United States, the preparation process involved, and the coping strategies and cultural adjustments they make as a student in an American university. Collected data was coded and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Content analysis was applied to qualitative data collected, for common themes and patterns. Findings of the study reported that there are multiple factors influencing students’ motivation, including but not limited to finances, personal goals and perceived value of education. Respondents described that the planning process was intensive and complex. They recounted employing creative coping strategies and making compromises on cultural adjustments. The study showed that the international students experience multiple levels of emotional, cultural and communication challenges upon arrival in the United States to pursue their studies. The results of the study also provided information that will be beneficial to higher education staff and faculty members in helping international students make better adjustments in the new environment. It is recommended that this research be expanded to include more participation of international students at this university and beyond.
