AN INVESTIGATION ON WHETHER OR NOT CHINESE STUDENTS HAVE ACHIEVED THEIR EXPECTATIONS TO STUDY IN U.S. UNIVERSITIES?

Niall Hegarty
Leonora Fuxman
Hilmi Elifoglu
Chiang-nan Chao
St. John’s University, New York, USA
ABSTRACT
This study explores whether or not Chinese students have achieved their expectations while
studying at U.S. universities. This study investigates the decision factors that lead to Chinese students
studying at the U.S. as their preferred destination. This study in U.S colleges and universities compares
whether or not these students’ experiences have met their expectations of study in the U.S. A better
understanding of Chinese students’ expectations of study in universities at the U.S. and whether or not
these students have achieved their expectations will enable educators and administrators better serve this
market segment. Although choosing to study in the U.S. is an academic endeavor, the decision making
leading to such a choice are not solely academic in nature.
The results of this study offers academicians and university administrators a better understanding
of the thought process of Chinese students in terms of how closely the reality of studying in the U.S.
compared to their expectations of same. The study is an informational glimpse for educators and
administrators showing that this market segment cannot be neglected due to its size and that continued
positive service to this student population is desirable.