Socialization experiences of Russian employees at the University of Alaska Fairbanks: cultural approach

Abstract

This qualitative exploratory study examines Russian employees' lived experiences at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) and the influence UAF culture has on the communicative socialization process. Like other international workers employed at various positions in American universities, Russian employees, especially Research and Teaching assistants, may experience difficulty in terms of language, culture, training, in terms of adapting to American culture, specifically American academic culture, to succeed in their jobs. The literature review for this study includes theoretical perspectives from intercultural communication, organizational communication, and the social construction of reality. Russian employees participate in in-depth narrative interviews about their communication experiences of socialization at U AF. Four repetitive themes emerge: (1) vulnerable self; (2) competition; (3) freedom; and (4) informality. Analysis also provides insight on cultural similarities and differences between Russians and Americans in their interactions at UAF, and on an interpersonal level. Implications for future research in relation to how cultural similarities and differences are revealed in a communication process between Russian graduate and professional students and their American counterparts, and how these similarities and differences affect their everyday interactions