Supporting the journey: University personnel perceptions of international students’ career expectations and challenges

The term 'international student' carries significant weight in discussions about higher education, workforce development, and immigration policy, given its multifaceted implications for national economies, academic institutions, and social structures. This qualitative study examines university personnel's perceptions of international students' career development experiences in the United States. Grounded in Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), the research aims to investigate how university personnel perceive the impact of cultural adjustment, social support, and access to career-related resources and training on international students' self-efficacy beliefs, outcome expectations, and learning experiences. Through interviews with university personnel in diverse roles (including STEM faculty), the study aims to develop a deep, insightful understanding of the complex factors these professionals believe influence international students as they navigate their academic and potential career paths in the U.S. The findings of this research are expected to provide insights for educational institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders seeking to create more informed and effective support structures for international students. Ultimately, this study aspires to enrich the ongoing discourse surrounding international student mobility, immigration policy, and the integration of a globally educated and trained talent pool.

Author

• Siklar, Kurt

Identifier

hdl:10057/56125

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:soar.wichita.edu:10057/56125