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Caravel Undergraduate Research Journal

Abstract

With a 170% increase in study abroad by U.S. students from 2000 to 2012, it is widely recognized that study abroad not only allows students to learn a foreign language and gain international experience, but also influences compassion for difference, motivation to engage in intercultural relationships, and understanding of culturally responsible behavior. Previous research suggests that study abroad impacts students' identities on social, national, global, and personal levels. This study explored how the identities of American students were influenced by summer study abroad in South Africa. Employing qualitative research methods, including in-country, in-depth interviews and PhotoVoice, a methodology which allows participants to recall important experiences through the use of photography, the purpose of this research was to document and investigate the lived experiences of study abroad students as they navigated and learned from their foreign environment. A total of nine students participated in this research and discussed their changing identities in terms of the study abroad experience, using their visual evidence as recall for important events. Findings revealed that students perceived their own identities as changed by having increased confidence, a more tolerant, well-rounded view of South Africa, and an altered view of their home culture. These ends were the result of experiencing new social norms, forming relationships with South Africans, isolating themselves in a foreign environment, taking risks, observing social and financial class differences, and immersing themselves daily in unfamiliar situations and contexts.

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