Perspectives from Japanese international graduate students and the effectiveness of support programs/services at University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa

Abstract

This thesis examines the difficulties that Japanese international graduate students encounter at the University of Hawai'i at Minoa (UHM), and the ways they adjust to their new environment. Qualitative research is conducted to explore the strengths and weaknesses of the various programs and support systems at UHM from the perspectives of these students. Three research questions guide this study: 1) What difficulties may Japanese international graduate students face at UHM? 2) What programs and support services have they used at UHM? How effective have these programs and services been for them? 3) What kinds of support would be helpful for these students to adapt to UHM and life in Hawai'i? Interviews are conducted with six Japanese international graduate students attending UHM. Based on their perspectives, recommendations are offered to staff and faculty who serve this population. A literature review is also included about the topic and to support the findings.