Experiences of International Students in Practicum and Internship Courses: A Consensus Qualitative Research

Authors

Sangmin Park, California State University SacramentoFollow
Jee Hyang Lee, University of IowaFollow
Susannah M. Wood, University of IowaFollow

Document Type

Article

Keywords

International students, challenge, CQR, counselor education, practicum/internship

Subject Area

Counseling, Counselor Education

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the practicum and/or internship experiences of international students in counseling. Based on the foundation of phenomenological research, this study uses a consensual qualitative research method. Semi-structured interview questionnaires asked ten participants regarding their experiences of practica and/or internships (including their fears, challenges, and support from training programs). Results revealed that the fears and challenges that international students face during the practicum and/or internship training primarily stemmed from their language barrier and/or a lack of understanding of the American counseling system. Our findings indicated that providing practical information, such as sites, the American counseling system, insurance, and cultures, in addition to ensuring that supervisors and faculty members increase in multicultural competency and sensitivity about international students, would improve international students’ preparation for their practica and/or internships.

DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.7729/92.1137

Recommended Citation

Park, S., Lee, J., & Wood, S. M. (2019). Experiences of International Students in Practicum and Internship Courses: A Consensus Qualitative Research. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 9(2). http://dx.doi.org/10.7729/92.1137