AC 2012-3145: IMPACTING ENGINEERING STUDENTS' GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES: THE RESEARCH ABROAD EXPERIENCES OF HBCU UNDERGRADUATES

This year, the Howard University College of Engineering, Architecture and Computer Sciences implemented an ambitious program entitled GEAR-UP (Global Education, Awareness and Research Undergraduate Program), which immersed minority, engineering undergraduates in an international context to conduct applied research in engineering. Selected engineering undergraduates participated in one of five new research collaborations formed in developing countries located in Southeast Asia, Africa or South America. This study sought to address a range of questions about minority students' experiences navigating international cultural settings. In this paper, we discuss participants' travel abroad experiences, their perspectives on conducting research in an international setting, as well as their subsequent personal and intellectual development. Specific issues discussed include students' unexpected cultural experiences, the challenges and rewards of international research, and improving preparation of future participants.