Who Chooses Nursing? Similarities and Differences in Pre-college Characteristics of Filipina/x/o Americans Nursing Majors versus Their Non-nursing Peers

• In Event: Understanding Disparities and Imagining Justice: Explorations Across the Professions

Abstract

This study examines the pre-college characteristics of 12,991 Filipina/x/o American first-year college students to understand differences between those aspiring to nursing careers and their peers pursuing other healthcare or non-healthcare professions. Using national survey data and guided by sociocultural-informed frameworks, the research reveals that nursing aspirants are more likely to come from lower-income families, prioritize familial influence, and choose less selective institutions closer to home. While sharing some traits with other healthcare-bound peers, nursing students exhibit distinct characteristics shaped by historical and cultural forces. These findings challenge individualistic career development models and underscore the need for culturally grounded approaches to support Filipina/x/o students in navigating educational and professional pathways.

Author

• Elaine Jessica Castillo Tamargo, California State University - Long Beach