Navigating New Horizons: Insights Into Cultural Adaptation and Educational Investment of Chinese Immigrant Families

• In Event: International Relations Committee Invited Session: Racial (In)Justice Across International Educational Contexts

Abstract

This study, conducted amidst the pervasive “model minority” stereotype and heightened societal scrutiny, investigates the educational experiences of Chinese immigrant families in a Southeastern U.S. city. Utilizing Bourdieu’s cultural capital theory, this ethnographic case study transcends local boundaries to examine two distinct family groups, delineated by their educational backgrounds. It unveils the challenges and adaptive strategies of immigrants striving for educational success amidst cultural and racial complexities. The findings disclose a variety of educational investment approaches and the significant influence of racial bias, emphasizing the complex relationship between cultural and economic capital globally. This work deepens our grasp of educational narratives of Chinese immigrant families and offers fresh insights into their enduring resilience and adaptability in the global context.

Author

• Yuechen Sun, University of South Carolina