STUDENTS’ SATISFACTION WITH A STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

Abstract

As globalization has altered the way the world works, cross-cultural competence has become a vital skill that employers look for in the workplace. In order to further develop students’ intercultural competencies, and meet the demands of the workplace, most business schools offer study abroad opportunities. These programs have consistently gained popularity over the years as business schools have strived to internationalize their curriculums. In order to encourage more students to engage in study abroad programs it is important to assess the efficacy of these programs, as well as participants’ satisfaction with the experience. The purpose of this exploratory study, accordingly, was to examine students’ motivations for participating in a faculty-led study abroad program to Peru; and their subsequent perceptions, personal development, and satisfaction with the program. This study utilized a qualitative approach to uncover key constructs and provide rich insights. Consistent with the confirmation-disconfirmation paradigm, this study examined both pre-program expectations and post-program outcomes. In-depth interviews revealed a high degree of personal and professional development, i.e., that post-program students were more interculturally proficient and global minded, and high levels of satisfaction and delight.