Transformations of Chinese international students understood through a sense of wholeness

This study aims to explore Chinese international students' academic and personal transformation under the influences of formal education in schools and informal education outside of the classroom. A qualitative inquiry using in-depth, semi-structured interviews was employed with eight senior undergraduate Chinese international students attending Canadian universities. The results of the interviews showed that Chinese international students are actively shaping themselves through the process of transitions. The transformation occurring within each individual is multi-faceted, and their re-adapted learning skills largely overlap with their reshaped attitudes. Moreover, their changed sense of self intertwines with changes in their thinking. These transformations are also evident in the assertion of their agency which empowers and helps them through challenges during periods of adjustment. This study also shows that the retrospection, self-determination and commitment to taking action enable Chinese international students to continue to pursue their goals and dreams.