Experiences of Chinese international students within higher education: a narrative study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Research has shown that international students experience challenges in the United States. This study explored how ten Chinese students drew upon their funds of knowledge to deal with challenges within higher education and analyzed how these students studying abroad positioned themselves within their experiences in the United States. Theoretical perspectives included funds of knowledge and positioning theory. Data sources included twenty interviews with ten participants. Findings showed how participants drew upon their funds of knowledge such as first language and social networks to deal with challenges. Findings also showed (a) how these participants positioned themselves within the storyline of challenges in their early years in college, and (b) how these participants repositioned themselves within the storyline of future plans.