The Adaptation of Horn of Africa Immigrant Students in Higher Education

• In Event: Understanding Unique and Critical Dimensions of the African and African American Diaspora in Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges of ten first generation immigrant students from the Horn of Africa encountered in their college learning in the United States and the strategies they used to succeed. A case study was used as a qualitative methodological approach and three data sources namely questionnaire, intensive interviews, and observations were used to collect and analyze data. The results revealed that language difficulties, financial problems, lack of culture awareness, time constraints, and inadequate guidance are challenges the first generation immigrant students encountered. The participants used socializing with classmates, socializing with people from their own counties, and ignoring or denying anything that causes them discomfort as coping mechanisms to overcome the challenges.

Authors

• Tekleab Hailu, Colorado Department of Corrections

• Heng-Yu Ku, University of Northern Colorado