Graduate Program

College Student Affairs

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Semester of Degree Completion

2012

Thesis Director

Charles G. Eberly

Thesis Committee Member

Shawn D. Peoples

Thesis Committee Member

Angela M. Yoder

Abstract

The purpose of this present study was to explore the problems that Indian subcontinent students who participated in international study programs encountered in their travel abroad. Using a qualitative research methodology, four graduate-level Indian students were interviewed via a semi-structured interview protocol. Participants were asked to share problems they were currently facing or had faced while studying at a midsized, comprehensive institution in the Midwest.

Using cross-comparative analysis, verbal interview data were analyzed for common codes and categories and were then grouped into themes. Five themes were apparent: Homesickness, Culture Shock, Discrimination, Language Barriers and Educational Differences, and Other Issues. The Indian participants were also asked for suggestions that might alleviate some of the identified problems. The study provides readers with an inside look into the 'voices' of the Indian international participants while offering recommendations for both Student Affairs practitioners and future researchers.

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