V. Jean Hofer
M.A. in Human Resources, 1994, Washington University
B.S. in Economics, 1990, University of Missouri-Rolla

The Identification of Issues Serving as Barriers to Positive Educational Experiences for Saudi Arabian Students Studying in the State of Missouri

Abstract

Although the cultures of Saudi Arabia and the United States may be referred to as a panorama of contrasts, the two countries have historically been bound together by mutual respect, admiration, and economical circumstances. However, when it was discovered that 15 of the 19 hijackers involved in the September 11, 2001 attack were from Saudi Arabia, it created serious tensions between the people and governments of both countries. As a result of the 9/11 tragedy, the United States implemented strict immigration policies which severely curtailed visa issuance to people of targeted countries, including Saudi Arabia. In 2005, a meeting between (then) President George Bush and (then) Crown Prince Abdullah was held to discuss ways that both countries may promote better long-term relations. A decision was made to send thousands of Saudis for higher education studies in the United States in an attempt to promote peaceful relations while educating Saudi students.

International student adjustment challenges are exacerbated for students whose host culture is extremely different from their own. This study was designed to identify and measure adjustment problems and issues serving as barriers to positive educational experience for Saudi Arabian students studying in the state of Missouri. A survey was distributed in the form of a written questionnaire. Mean and standard deviation analysis was conducted in order to identify major areas of concern; t-tests were employed to examine differences in means between groups of Saudi students according to exogenous variables pertinent to research questions. Results indicated that Saudi Arabian students studying in the state of Missouri are relatively satisfied. Responses showed that out of eleven MISPI categories, only three categories rated as presenting a minor problem; these were living-dining, English language, and financial aid. Overall the findings revealed that this student group perceived their adjustment challenges as being less problematic than those of Saudi or Arabian students previously studied. Significant differences in MISPI categories resulted when correlated to students’ age, gender, marital status, length of time residing in the United States, degree sought, and the size of the institution attended.

Students’ qualitative comments were generally positive and optimistic. Students expressed a desire to engage in activities which facilitated making friends, the organization of student events, outings and creating opportunities for cultural exchange. Students expressed concerns regarding immigration regulations, airport procedures, and visa difficulties which prevented them from traveling home between semester breaks.

Defense of Dissertation Committee