An exploration of cultural competence in career services with international students

Abstract

This study reports on career development professionals’ (CDPs) understanding and use of cultural competence in their work with international students. The Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies guided the study as a conceptual framework based on the literature on international student experiences. The research team used an exploratory qualitative design informed by the community-based participatory and social justice research approaches. The study included two phases: a survey (n = 33) and semi-structured interviews (n = 12). The survey results indicated limited familiarity with specific competency frameworks and informed the semi-structured interviews. Five themes emerged: (1) Awareness of intersectionality and systems of oppression; (2) the need for a holistic approach to career services; (3) specific cultural competence skills; (4) systemic barriers for both international students and CDPs; and (5) the need for advocacy on behalf of and with international students. The findings are discussed with implications for CDPs, institutions, and systemic change.