EXPLORING CULTURAL IDENTITIES THAT SHAPE INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ EXPERIENCES: A JOURNEY TOWARDS CULTURAL HUMILITY
Research Poster Social & Behavioral Sciences 2025 Graduate ExhibitionPresentation by Ruhi Banerjee
Exhibition Number 73
Abstract
The purpose of this basic interpretive qualitative research study was to examine the components of cultural identity to understand the complex experiences of international students enrolled in higher education in the U.S. and their development of cultural humility. International students who participated in the research needed to navigate challenges, cultural and otherwise, in their host country, requiring them to develop resilience and adaptability. Cultivating cultural humility, a lifelong process of self-reflection and learning, has the potential to empower international students to turn their challenges into opportunities for growth, cultural exchange, and meaningful collaboration. The study utilized the Hays ADDRESSING Framework as a lens to assess the experiential learning processes of international students. The framework outlines the factors that determine an individual’s identity: Age, Developmental and acquired Disabilities, Religion, Ethnicity, Socioeconomic status, Sexual orientation, Indigenous heritage, National origin, and Gender. Data collection consisted of an online survey followed by semi-structured interviews with ten international students at a mid-sized university in the Mid-Atlantic region. Findings revealed that participants’ cultural identities largely remained unchanged despite their move to another country. However, the meaning they attached to these cultural identities evolved over time based on their experiences and from the influence of social, cultural, and political environments. Findings also revealed that while reflecting on their various experiences and identities, participants were eager and open to learning and adapting to the new environment. Further emphasizing that cultural humility is a continuous and conscious effort of self-reflecting on their biases and being open to diverse perspectives.
Importance
The significance of this study is its contribution to international student communities, adult education, diversity, equity, and inclusion work, and training and development. Developing cultural humility, from an adult education perspective, is a consistent and everyday practice that emphasizes on self-reflection. For today’s students, it is essential to not only develop cultural humility but also internalize it which requires deep exploration of their identities, values, and biases.
DEI Statement
This study connects to DEI by focusing on experiences of international students who face unique challenges including cultural adaptation, discrimination, and systemic barriers which can increase inequalities. By examining their development of cultural humility, a lifelong process of learning through self-reflection and openness to diverse perspectives, this research highlights how DEI principles can be applied to support their resilience and growth. The findings underscore the importance of creating inclusive environments that honor diverse cultural identities while fostering mutual understanding and collaboration. This study advances DEI by advocating for systemic changes that empower marginalized populations and promote equal opportunities for all.