A peer-reviewed study of African students at a U.S. university finds that the promise of stronger career prospects is a major reason they choose to study in the United States, but that language barriers, discrimination and culture shock shape their day-to-day experience once they arrive.
Key facts
- The study used in-depth interviews with 21 participants enrolled at a U.S. university.
- Researchers used a descriptive study design and recruited participants through snowball sampling.
- Students said American institutions were attractive because they were seen as outstanding and linked to better career prospects after graduation.
- University orientations, media shows on American culture and cross-cultural events were described as helping students acclimate.
- Language barriers, discrimination and culture shock were identified as the main challenges.
What does this mean for African students studying in the United States?
The study suggests that African students may arrive with high expectations about academic quality and post-graduation opportunity, but their adjustment can depend heavily on how universities support the transition. The researchers highlight orientation programs, cultural programming and cross-cultural events as practical aids for acclimation.
It also shows that support needs are not only academic. Students in the study faced language-related difficulty, discrimination and culture shock, pointing to a need for institutions to address both classroom access and social integration for international students.
- Helpful supports cited in the study: university orientations, media shows on American culture and cross-cultural events.
- Main obstacles cited in the study: language barriers, discrimination and culture shock.
Why do African students choose to study in the U.S.?
In this study, the main incentives were the perception that American higher education is outstanding and the expectation of better career prospects after graduation. Those motivations shaped why participants enrolled at a U.S. university in the first place.
How do students adapt after arriving?
The study found that adaptation is helped by university-organized orientations, media shows about American culture and cross-cultural events. These activities were described by participants as useful ways to become familiar with the new environment.
What problems do the students report?
The participants identified language barriers, discrimination and culture shock as the key challenges in their lived experience at the U.S. university. Those issues affected the transition to studying abroad and show that adaptation is not automatic even when students are motivated to attend.
Frequently asked questions
What was the study’s focus?
The study explored the lived experiences of African students studying in the United States, with attention to both positive and negative experiences at a U.S. university.
How many students were interviewed?
Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 21 participants enrolled at a U.S. university.
