Acculturation of International Student In Hawaiʻi: Case Of The East-West Center

Abstract

In order to grow more experience in different culture, many of the college students choose to continue their education abroad. The United States is known for its robust educational system. Moreover, there is great cultural diversity in many of the educational institution in the United States. Hence, the international students can not only be exposed to the US culture but also other different cultures. The East-West Center has provided various programs to enhance students’ engagement in the local culture in Hawaiʻi and meanwhile facilitate their communication with people from all around the world. This qualitative research aims to examine international students’ behaviors, self-identity, attitude, cultural awareness when they approach to different cultures within the East-West Center. The results from the interviews and participant observation reveal the international students’ evaluation and experiences in attending the activities in the East-West Center, which help us to know more about the role of the East-West Center in their acculturation. Understanding what kind of resources do the international students need can offer the East-West Center with multiple dimensions in assisting the students to adjust to a new society.