Journal Article

Home away from home : international students and their identity-based social networks in Australia

Marsha Berry, Catherine Gomes, Shanton Chang, Basil Alzougool

2014

Overview

This paper explores the role of identity in helping international students form social networks at an Australian institution and how these networks contribute to creating a sense of home away from home. The findings suggest that international students form distinct social networks that are not necessarily solely made up of fellow students from their home countries. Rather, international students form a mixture of social networks that are based on the complex individual identities of each student centred on a variety of common factors, such as: course of study, place of work, neighbourhood, culture, religion and personal interests (hobbies). Hence many students are part of social groups that consist of international students from their specific region and beyond, as well as local (Anglo and non-Anglo) students. These locally based social networks complement existing home-based networks which are maintained virtually through social media to create a home away from home. [Author abstract, ed]

• Publisher: Journal of International Students,Journal of International Students (JIS)
• Subject: Adjustment (To environment) / Australia / College students / Computer Mediated Communication / Cultural Background / Focus Groups / Foreign Countries / Foreign Students / Graduate Students / Health Behavior / Higher education / Identity formation / International students / Interpersonal Relationship / Language Proficiency / Learner Engagement / Life Style / Network Analysis / Qualitative Research / Role / Self Concept / Social aspects / Social media / Social networking / Social Networks / Social support / Student Adjustment / Student Attitudes / Student Interests / Student welfare / Students, Foreign / Studies / Study Abroad / TAFE students / Undergraduate Students / University students / Web Sites