Stress in Study Abroad Students

Abstract

Studying abroad is a common experience among university students allowifn for academic and personal growth while simultaneously exposing students to new stressors from acculturation. As this can negatively impact their emotional well-being and academic performance. This project derived data from study abroad students to explore the common stressors and coping strategies. The results revealed moderate to high levels of academic and emotional stress (n=17). The workshop proposed is designed to identify these stressors present from data and strengthen the coping stratgies thriugh self reflection and group support. The workshop utilises peer interaction and is grounded in Lazarus and Folkman's cognitive relational theory of stress. Findings in the study and the workshop aim to improve adaptation and well-being during the study abroad experience.