My final research project examined the difference between the academic output of Hispanics and Americans during their first year at American University. The methodology consisted of two parts. First I conducted an online survey which was given to 20 Americans and 20 Hispanics. The survey addressed questions, such as first semester GPA, how often they participate in class and how confident they felt when writing papers or giving presentations. Then, I conducted personal interviews with some Hispanics to talk more in depth if they felt there was a huge difference between the academic system of their country, and the academic system of US.
My hypothesis was that Hispanics have a harder time during their first academic year compared to Americans. My theory was not rejected. My results showed that Hispanic experience more struggles during their first year because they have to adapt to the English language, class room norms and deal with separation anxiety. And as a consequence, their grades tend to be jeopardized. The data found was extremely interesting, and posed new questions, such has what happens to the Hispanic students when they go back home. Do they experience reverse culture shock?
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