Lana Oconnell
International students who study abroad are sometimes referred to as sojourners. A sojourn is defined as a temporary stay in a new place, which is typically voluntary and for a relatively short period, usually between 6 months to 5 years. Student sojourners are characterised by their voluntary decision to leave their home country for education, their lack of intention to settle permanently in the host country, and their tendency to not fully integrate into the host culture. Research has explored the concept of sojourner adjustment, investigating the psychological and cultural impacts of studying abroad on sojourners. Factors such as age, previous international experience, and certain personality traits have been found to influence the decision and experience of studying abroad.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A student sojourner is defined by three key characteristics |
| First Characteristic | They have voluntarily left their home countries in order to obtain an education |
| Second Characteristic | They have no intention of permanent settlement in the host country |
| Third Characteristic | They typically do not try to integrate into the host country |
| Other Characteristics | They live temporarily in a foreign country and must achieve satisfactory academic objectives within a limited period of time |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- International students are regarded as sojourners who live temporarily in a foreign country
- Sojourners must achieve academic objectives within a limited period
- Students may experience acculturative stress in a foreign country
- Study abroad programs can alter a student's life and shape their future
- Sojourners typically do not try to integrate into the host country
International students are regarded as sojourners who live temporarily in a foreign country
International students are indeed often regarded as sojourners. The term "sojourner" is used to describe students who voluntarily leave their home country to study abroad for a limited time without intending to settle permanently in the host country. This definition aligns with the nature of international students' temporary residence in a foreign country.
The concept of students as sojourners is explored in various publications, such as "The Overseas Student: Expatriate, Sojourner, or Settler?" by Cox in 1988 and "Stability of and Change in Psychopathological Risk Levels in Pre-Early Adolescents before, during, and after Their Study Sojourns" by Cerniglia and Cimino in 2024. These works acknowledge the unique challenges and experiences of international students, including potential mental health concerns and the significant impact on their personal growth, intercultural development, and future careers.
The term "sojourner" is particularly relevant for international students who choose study abroad programs, which can be a major decision shaping their lives and futures. During their time in the host country, international students, or sojourners, are expected to achieve specific academic objectives within their limited stay. This transient nature of their stay differentiates them from expatriates or settlers, who may have longer-term intentions or permanent residency plans.
While the term "sojourner" captures the temporary nature of international students' residence, it is important to note that their experiences can vary. Some international students may actively engage with the host culture and seek integration, while others may maintain a greater sense of separation, as described by Zhu (2016) in the characteristics of student sojourners. Additionally, the reasons for studying abroad, or the "push" and "pull" factors, can vary among international students, influencing their perspectives and experiences as sojourners.
In conclusion, the term "sojourner" aptly describes international students who live temporarily in a foreign country, capturing their unique experiences and perspectives. This terminology acknowledges the voluntary nature of their decision to pursue education abroad, their limited time in the host country, and their lack of intention for permanent settlement. Understanding the concept of sojourners provides valuable context for supporting and guiding international students through their academic journeys and cultural exchanges.
Sponsorships: What International Students Need to Know
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Sojourners must achieve academic objectives within a limited period
International students who study abroad are sometimes referred to as sojourners. The term "sojourner" is used to describe students who live and study temporarily in a foreign country. These sojourners often have specific academic objectives that they must achieve within a limited time frame.
The decision to study abroad is a significant one that can shape a student's future. It involves leaving one's home country voluntarily to pursue educational opportunities elsewhere. This choice comes with challenges and benefits. Sojourners may face difficulties in adjusting to a new culture and language, which can impact their mental health and well-being. However, studying abroad also offers valuable experiences that foster personal growth, intercultural development, and enhanced career prospects.
Sojourners must navigate the complexities of living and studying in a foreign country while managing the stress that comes with it. They may encounter cultural and language barriers, homesickness, and the need to adapt to different educational systems and standards. These challenges can impact their academic performance, making time management and prioritization crucial. Sojourners must quickly learn to balance their academic pursuits with their personal well-being to succeed within the limited duration of their stay.
To achieve their academic objectives, sojourners must develop effective strategies. They should actively seek support from mental health professionals and university welfare services, which can help them manage stress and maintain their well-being. Additionally, sojourners can benefit from connecting with other international students who may share similar experiences and challenges. Building a solid support system can help them stay focused and motivated.
Furthermore, sojourners should take advantage of the resources available at their host institutions. Many universities offer academic support services, such as tutoring or study groups, which can help them excel in their courses. They can also seek guidance from faculty members and advisors who are familiar with the local educational system and can provide valuable insights and advice. By leveraging these resources, sojourners can enhance their academic performance and increase their chances of achieving their goals within the given time frame.
International Students: CAS Enrolment Requirements
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Students may experience acculturative stress in a foreign country
International students who study abroad are sometimes referred to as sojourners. Studying abroad is a major decision that can alter the life of a student and shape their future. While it can lead to personal growth, intercultural development, and career attainment, students may also experience acculturative stress. Acculturative stress arises from the challenges of adapting to a new culture and can be influenced by the level of social support received.
Acculturative stress in international students has been observed in various countries, including Chinese students in Pakistan and Iranian and Filipino physicians in the United States. This stress is not limited to students but can also impact professionals such as physicians, who may face adjustment and psychosocial problems when working in a foreign country.
Social support has been identified as a factor that influences acculturative stress in international students. Studies have examined the impact of different types of social support, including family support, old friend support, new friend support, and university support, on the stress levels of international students. However, there is a lack of systematic reviews and meta-analyses to clarify the exact effect of social support on minimizing acculturative stress.
The transition from an individualistic culture to a collectivistic culture, or vice versa, can also impact the level of acculturative stress experienced by international students. This cultural shift may involve adapting to different societal values, norms, and expectations, which can be challenging and contribute to feelings of stress and homesickness.
To support international students in managing acculturative stress, universities and educational institutions can develop interventions and policies that promote social support and cultural adjustment. These measures can help mitigate the potential negative impact of acculturative stress on the well-being and academic success of international students.
International Students: Understand Your Tax Returns
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Study abroad programs can alter a student's life and shape their future
Studying abroad is a major decision that can significantly alter a student's life and shape their future. It is a unique and transformational experience that offers a range of benefits, from personal growth and intercultural development to enhanced academic and professional outcomes.
Firstly, studying abroad provides students with invaluable global competency skills. They gain exposure to different cultures, navigate diverse environments, and develop a broader, more nuanced understanding of global issues. This fosters intercultural understanding, tolerance, and respect for diverse political and economic systems, which are essential for succeeding in an increasingly interconnected world.
Secondly, language acquisition is accelerated through immersion in a foreign language environment. Constant exposure to real-life situations, conversations, and cultural nuances enhances language proficiency and boosts confidence in speaking a second language. This is crucial in today's global workforce, where employers highly value proficiency in multiple languages.
Additionally, study abroad programs positively impact academic performance and career prospects. Students often exhibit improved grades and a higher GPA, without prolonging their time to graduation. The diverse academic experiences and global perspectives gained are advantageous, and employers recognize the value of skills cultivated through these programs, such as adaptability, problem-solving, and cross-cultural communication. Over 70% of students reported that their study abroad experiences significantly helped develop these skills, and 67% of study abroad alumni found their first job within six months of graduation.
Furthermore, studying abroad can be particularly impactful for first-generation students and underrepresented minorities. It empowers them by enhancing their key skills for post-secondary education and entry into the global workforce. The experience also influences their career choices and provides an edge during job applications, demonstrating the transformative potential of study abroad programs in shaping individuals' future paths.
While the term "sojourner" is used in some contexts to refer to international students studying abroad, they are also often referred to as "exchange students" or "international scholars." Regardless of the title, the impact of their international experience can have a lasting influence on their personal and professional trajectories.
Social US Resident Alien: International Students' Identity Crisis
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Sojourners typically do not try to integrate into the host country
A sojourner is a person who resides in a country other than their country of origin for an extended period of time. The term is often used to refer to international students, peace corps volunteers, military personnel, missionaries, and people who temporarily work overseas. Sojourners typically have a specific purpose for leaving their home country, such as studying, working, or providing humanitarian aid, but they do not intend to stay permanently in the host country or apply for citizenship.
Counselors can assist sojourners in adjusting to their new environment and normalizing their feelings. It is important for counselors to be respectful of the sojourner's unique worldview and not pressure them to change to fit in with the culture of the host country. Instead, counselors should aim to facilitate a multiculturally sensitive approach to treatment by familiarizing themselves with the customs of the sojourner's culture of origin.
While sojourners may not fully integrate into the host country, they can still benefit from the experience. For example, sojourners may return to their native country with a new understanding of international relations and an increased appreciation for both their native country and the host country. Additionally, students who study abroad can gain personal growth, intercultural development, and career attainment. They learn to respect the diversities of people and cultures, and they develop the skills to become effective global leaders.
International Students: Australia's Border Plans Revealed
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
A sojourner is a person who lives temporarily in a foreign country.
Yes, an international student studying abroad can be regarded as a sojourner. They live temporarily in a foreign country and must achieve academic objectives within a limited period of time.
International students who are sojourners may face challenges such as acculturating into the host country, feelings of rejection from the host culture, anxiety, loneliness, and depression, often termed "culture shock".
Yes, studying abroad as an international student can lead to personal growth, intercultural development, and enhanced career opportunities. It can shape a student's future and make them more effective and efficient, respecting diversities of people and cultures.
