Abstract:
In the age of globalization, it is more important than ever that students gain skills
that enable them to communicate with people from other cultures. This research explored
the experiences of study abroad participants and the special challenges that men and
women faced during a study abroad program in Italy. While women's and men's
experiences are similar in many ways, women's heightened concern for their own
physical safety could lead to greater gains in intercultural competency. In addition,
women may have had increased interactions with people from other cultures. Men are
capable of gaining intercultural competency if they prioritize intercultural interaction and
take steps to seek it out.