International Ph.D. Students’ Use of Social Media in Navigating Academic and Cross-Cultural Adaptation

• In Event: Social Media Sensemaking Within and Across Cultures

Abstract

Studying abroad presents both opportunities and challenges for international students. This qualitative multiple case study (Yin, 2017) examines how international Ph.D. students use social media to support their cultural and academic adaptation during their first year abroad. Eight participants from diverse backgrounds and disciplines were recruited. Data sources include interviews and social media artifacts. Findings reveal the challenges they faced, including commuting, cultural differences, encounters with racism, and academic challenges. This study also identifies the social media approaches they adopted to overcome such challenges. Participants utilize both US-based and home-country platforms for information seeking, learning, news updates, and social and emotional support. These activities extend from pre-departure throughout the settling-down phases.

Author

• Dan He, Florida State University