Blending Cultures, Identities in Transition: Nursing Students from African Countries in a South Georgia University

The United States is one of the top host countries for international students, including thousands from African countries. Many African-born international students enter our undergraduate nursing program in Southeast Georgia, but struggle to be successful once they are admitted. The challenges faced by international students in the U. S. are well documented, and studies have shown that the barriers are even greater for students from Africa than for other international students, due to the vast differences between their cultural backgrounds and our U. S. culture. When those students are also Black, they may also face discrimination and prejudice in this country. As the student body becomes increasingly internationally diverse in this Southeast Georgia nursing program, it is imperative that the nursing faculty learn about the cultural clashes faced by these students, and to understand how the students’ cultural backgrounds and worldviews impact their experiences. This study will seek to construct meaning from the lived experiences of African-born international nursing students at a predominantly White university in Southeast Georgia, and give voice to the students by presenting the results in their own words, providing insight into their experiences. African-born international students enter the classroom with their own cultural beliefs and worldviews already in place, just as we do. It is up to faculty to make connections with students, and seek to understand their needs. Culturally responsive teachers are open to learning from their students from diverse backgrounds, and are willing to adjust their pedagogy and curriculum accordingly, as needed