Chapter 3: Perception of Place in Study Abroad Programs: An Experience for Personal and Intellectual Growth

Students who participate in U.S. study abroad programs often praise having been exposed to new ways of thinking and living. These new paradigms facilitate personal and intellectual growths. U.S. educators design study abroad programs to place preservice teachers in the role of the “Other”—an essential element in understanding international education and teaching for social justice. Many have returned from study abroad experiences characterizing it as worthwhile and even life-transforming. This chapter highlights participants’ personal experiences after immersing themselves in a new culture, learning in a new and different academic environment, and experiencing “Othering.” The chapter focuses on participants’ perceptions of the role of site in their reportedly increased self-confidence and heightened sense of intellectual and professional growth as a result of participating in a study abroad program.