So Jung Kim

Describe what brought you to this research:

​​At the graduate student-researcher’s fieldwork site, there are a substantial number of international students, the majority of them being Korean. Overall, the number of students engaging in extended study abroad as primary and secondary students is increasing in the U.S., which suggests a need to attend to the psychological needs of young adolescents who may be struggling to navigate difficult cultural transitions (Kim & Okazaki, 2014). According to anecdotal evidence from the school counselors and EL teachers at the site of the present study, the Korean population is the most difficult sub-group of the international student to work with due to a considerable amount of misunderstandings, and language and cultural barriers in comparison to those of other cultures. Gaps that exist between different cultures can lead to emotional distress, clinically significant symptoms of depression and anxiety, and academic problems (Carr, Koyama & Thiagarajan, 2003). Being an international student herself, the student-researcher wanted to work with those who might be having difficulties adjusting in an American school setting. Through this group intervention, students were able to address common issues including homesickness, academic and emotional distress, language difficulties, and establishing close friendships. As the student-researcher, I also examined the development of my group counseling skills and increased my awareness of the varying contexts of school counseling practice.

What was your specific research question?

How can support groups effectively address the needs of Korean International Students?

How has action research prepared you for your current career?

​​Action Research has helped develop my group counseling skills, as well as increase my knowledge of working with international students. Based on my findings, I was able to create new knowledge to support existing literature that group counseling is an effective intervention that can benefit students in different ways. It helps with the transition into a new culture, creates a support system, provides a sense of belonging and a safe space to open up, decreases stress levels, and can trigger feelings of inspiration. Although I ran into some challenges, especially during the recruiting process, I have learned that I can improve my practice by being open to change, educating myself through accessing resources, and asking questions about various cultural needs. I have also learned through this entire research process that I have a deep passion for working with international students, and by continuing to enhance my cultural competency I will strengthen my ability to advocate for diverse students in diverse educational settings. I look forward to continuing to engage in practitioner research-based evidence collection and to continuing to generate new knowledge to support the counseling profession.