The King's Vision: An Exploration of Saudi Arabian Students' Journeys in the United States

The educational sector in Saudi Arabia is undergoing rapid and profound change. Tens of thousands of students are studying in the United States and other Western nations to obtain an education capable of investing in and transforming the country. This step-taking movement is producing an incredible amount of degree-holding citizens that is already making an impact on the development of the country. This study investigated the expectations, experiences, and career aspirations of Saudi students in the United States. That is, the study included the expectations that Saudi students hold, both academically and socially, prior to and during their study abroad experience, while also exploring the academic and social experiences of Saudi students during this journey at one public suburban Midwestern state campus. Lastly, the study investigated the career aspirations of these Saudi students in the United States and sought to determine possible differences across gender. Data was obtained from two focus groups and ten one-on-one interviews.;Existing knowledge and the literature related to the Saudi Arabian educational system, the United States relationship with Saudi Arabia, and the study abroad impact on students is presented and explored early in the study. The framework applied by the researcher included the W-curve model (Gullahorn & Gullahorn, 1963), Attribution theory (Weiner, 1986), and Holland's (1973) theory of Vocational Choice. The study was qualitative in nature and applied the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach.;The central emergent themes that arose within the findings consisted of academic reputation of American universities, professional development, facing negative perceptions and stereotypes, poor educational background, a fear of language and degree requirements, and change of experience over time. Overall, participants reported positive academic and social experiences in their study abroad, yet a need for enhanced advising and preparedness of students. Future research must focus on other topics related to the future of study abroad programs like those suggested in this study; increased English performance prior to college enrollment, awareness of the host culture, prospective challenges, and the educational environment.