Exploración de las etapas de movilidad estudiantil: perspectivas de estudiantes de la Universidad de Sonora en instituciones de educación superior sudamericanas

This study examines the experiences of students from various undergraduate programs at the Universidad de Sonora, Mexico, who have taken part in student exchange initiatives to South American countries. An analysis and reconstruction of the experiences that these students go through during their stay in international higher education institutions are proposed, considering the stages of displacement, internment, and return. The method adopted for this study is framed in a qualitative research approach, through which nineteen interviews were conducted with individuals who were part of the exchange programs during the year 2019. The main goal was to gather and analyze their experiences and reflections about their stays in countries in the South American region. The results of this study reveal that student mobility goes beyond academic benefits, promoting the integral growth of students in personal, social, and professional aspects. The emergence of a “Mobility generation,” which prioritizes independence and global exploration, is highlighted. However, a gap in access to these opportunities is found, influenced by socioeconomic and educational factors, which underscores the need for inclusive policies.