2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

This qualitative study investigates the factors influencing Korean international students’ decisions to major in CS (Computer Science) and CE (Computer Engineering) at a U.S. university, as well as their academic experiences. Through semi-structured interviews with two female and two male Korean undergraduates, three core themes emerged: strong personal interest in computing, influences of parental beliefs and societal norms limiting female students (particularly affecting female students), and utility of major for future career. Findings show that while personal interest is a primary motivator, gender biases and parental beliefs can redirect female students from other STEM fields to CS. Additionally, participants cited dissatisfaction with Korea’s public education system, and freedom and flexibility with U.S. education as reasons for studying abroad. The study underscores the need for reforms in K-12 computer and career education and for addressing gender biases to support informed major and career choices among students.