A Female Middle Eastern Graduate Student's Socialization to an Academic Environment in the United States

• In Event: Roundtable Session 29
  In Roundtable Session: Socialization and Identity: Who Do They Say We Are?

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore a female student’s experiences in the United States. The case of a female Muslim student is discussed, and her academic experiences are shared regarding the impacts of her racial, linguistic, educational and cultural backgrounds. Using Bourdieu’s cultural capital theory, I investigated how student’s diverse background impacted her academic socialization. One and a half hour semi-structured interviews with this student were conducted, and data was analyzed employing constant comparative analysis. Findings included religious and cultural discrimination, disappointment with learning experiences, the experience of being targeted, and feelings of marginalization. The findings from this study challenges policy makers, curriculum developers and faculty to be more responsive to the academic needs of international students.

Author

• Maryam Heydari, University of Wisconsin - Madison