An Exploratory Study of the Experiences of African International Students in U.S. Higher Education

Abstract

Abstract Given the increasing number of international students attending US higher education institutions, it is imperative to study the experiences of African students’ transition period, as they acculturate into the American culture and educational system. The uniqueness of African international students may be different from the experiences of international students from other regions. As a result of the account of African students, university counseling centers, campus services, and those who interact with and support these students, the initial and ongoing stress of living in a foreign country and adapting to a new way of life can be eased. Six African international students participated in individual semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted at a Midwest research university. To better understand cross-cultural adjustment, a basic interpretive qualitative research (BIQR) design was utilized. The interview texts were analyzed based on the basic interpretive qualitative approach, which has been described as containing elements of induction, theoretical, and constant comparison. Findings indicated specific experiences regarding African international students’ adjustment to the US environment, including strategies perceived as helpful in specific situations. Based on the analysis of participant interviews, the major themes that arose from the interviews included: academic prowess; social integration; and cultural integration. Implications for research and practice have been discussed. It is recommended that future researchers examine the unique subpopulations of international students’ cross-cultural adjustments and experiences.