The Role of Volunteerism in Social Integration: A Case Study of African International Students in the United States

• In Event: Educational Evaluation and Reform in Africa and in the Caribbean

Abstract

This study examined the role of volunteering on African international students’ social integration and adaptation at a predominantly White Mid-Western university. An interview guided approach was used to extract information from 11 participants who had volunteered in activities that required substantial interactions. Four themes on the positive influence of volunteering on social integration were identified namely; fostering feelings of inclusion and belonging, enhancing social cohesion of diverse people, fostering feelings of self-validation, and attainment of social, cultural, and human capital. Negative experiences during volunteering that potentially impeded adaptation of volunteers were also reported. Language barriers and feelings of non-competence were cited as main deterrent factors from volunteering. We concluded that volunteerism can hasten social integration and adaptation of African international students.

Authors

• Angellar Manguvo, University of Missouri

• Stephen D. Whitney, University of Missouri