A Girls Guide to Study Abroad

This thesis, titled "A Girl’s Guide to Study Abroad," explores the multifaceted experiences of female students in international study programs through an autoethnographic lens. The research draws on my personal experiences during a semester abroad with the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) in Italy. To document and analyze the diverse challenges, adaptations, and growth I encountered, I utilized the Diarium app to capture daily notes encompassing personal reflections, logistical hurdles, and emotional insights. These reflections were subsequently analyzed through thematic analysis using the Braun and Clarke method in NVivo 12 software to identify emergent themes categorized as positive, challenging, or requiring improvement. The study uncovered common stressors female students face, including cultural adjustments, navigating social expectations, and accessing mental health resources while abroad. One key finding highlighted the lack of visibility and accessibility of mental health support within study abroad programs. The culmination of this analysis is an online resource, 'A Girl’s Guide to Study Abroad,' designed to provide future female students at the University of Arkansas with practical insights, support, and preparation tips. This resource aims to empower female students to navigate study abroad experiences with confidence, manage challenges effectively, and enhance their overall personal growth during international study.