Two International Student-Mothers Navigating and Transforming U.S. Graduate Education Schools

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 11:25 am
  In Roundtable Session: International Student Experiences: COVID, Race, and Sense of Belonging (Table 32)

Abstract

Employing AsianCrit (Museus & Iftikar, 2013) and feminist theory, the study explores the experiences of two Chinese international student-mothers pursuing graduate education in the U.S. and seeks to understand how their intersecting identities as racial minorities, migrants, and mothers influence their academic journey amid challenges of racism and white supremacy. Utilizing the plática approach, the researchers engage in dialogues to understand the strategies employed by them to navigate and make contributions to U.S graduate education and beyond. The study highlights how transnational experiences influence their academic and parenting journey and the ways they resist inequity in education and sheds light on empowerment strategies and support systems that contribute to their success and well-being in pursuing academic aspirations.

Authors

• Qinghua Liu, Boston College

• Xiaoyi Wei, SUNY Brockport