Representation Matters: Improving Public Diplomacy Initiatives by Increasing the Number of Students of Color Participating in Study Abroad Programs

International educational exchange programs are one of the leading ways to promote U.S. public and cultural diplomacy initiatives abroad. However, these efforts have misrepresented the country’s racial and cultural makeup because of the lack of students of color participating in them. This research study analyzes the recruitment strategies used by international educational placement agencies and explores why students of color are not participating in study abroad programs. Based on the qualitative data obtained from the research methods used in this study, a recruitment model was designed for placement agencies to implement for increasing the number of students of color participating in study abroad programs. Thus, accurately presenting the true citizenry of the U.S. across national borders.Master of Art