Degree Name
Master of Arts
Graduate Program
Speech Communication
Advisor
Conway-Pensoneau , Sandy
Abstract
The increasing enrollment of international students in U.S. tertiary education institutions highlights the necessity for a deeper understanding of cultural adaptation experiences. This study aims to investigate the challenges and strategies African international students encounter while adapting to the cultural dynamics at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Using qualitative interviewing, this study explores how African students navigate cultural differences and respond to the social and academic demands of a new environment. The findings of this study revealed how faculty relationships and other resources from the university and surrounding community play a vital role in African international student’s adaptation process. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering insights into the specific cultural challenges faced by African international students, and by informing higher education institutions on how to enhance their experiences and facilitate smoother transitions into the U.S. educational system. Ultimately, this research recommends improvements in institutional support for (all) international students.