Sink or Swim: Navigating the Abyss of Academia by Two Foreign-Born Female Faculty

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:20 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: CERECG SIG Round Table 6: Positionalities of Color in Academia (Table 4)

Abstract

This study explores the unique experiences of international faculty women of color (IFWOC) navigating U.S. higher education through autoethnography. This work is framed within an asset based approach.Despite constituting a small yet significant portion of faculty in the US, IFWC navigates disproportionate challenges in achieving tenure, compounded by intersecting identities of race and gender. Our research highlights the lack of support and mentorship for IFWOC, and the detrimental impact on mental health. By sharing personal narratives, we aim to shed light on these challenges and offer practical strategies for IFWOC to thrive in their academic careers. Ultimately, this study underscores the urgent need for increased support and mentorship for IFWC to ensure their retention in higher education.

Authors

• Kwangjong Park, New Mexico Highlands University

• Debalina Maitra, Kennesaw State University