A Qualitative Study of Third-Generation Vietnamese American Students’ Career Aspirations and Choices to Inform School Leaders

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D)

Department

Educational Administration

Date of Award

Fall 2024

Abstract

This study used descriptive qualitative inquiry to examine the career aspirations and choices of a sample of third-generation Vietnamese American college students. Substantial evidence indicates parents have played a significant role in the career choices of Asian American youth. Examining family impacts on Asian Americans' career choices requires that researchers use a culturally specific lens to capture words that are more culturally relevant. In the past couple of decades, a high percentage of second or third-generation Vietnamese American immigrants did not choose STEM as their major compared to previous generations. Also, in the past, STEM majors generally had a higher ratio of Asian American students compared to students of other ethnicities and nationalities enrolled in higher education. Personal interviews were conducted with 12 Vietnamese American young adult students who are third-generation immigrants, older than 18 years, and enrolled in trade schools and/or college credit-bearing courses to examine the influences on their career aspirations.

Advisor

Peter Williams

Subject Categories

Education

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