Examining the Use of Online Social Networks by Korean Graduate Students

This book examines how former, current and prospective Korean graduate students navigate American universities, especially with regard to the student-advisor relationship. Based on extensive case study research conducted around Vivid Journal—an online social network for many domestic and international Korean graduate students—this volume highlights issues regarding access to various academic capitals (i.e., scholarship, publishing, participation in academic research), successful completion of graduate degrees, and academic or non-academic employment opportunities upon graduation. Through a rigorous analysis of members’ posting behavior, interaction, and role assignments, this book offers a new conceptual framework for online and social support networks, especially around the shaping and mediation of international student-advisor relationships.