Self-Formation of Chinese Double-Degree Engineering Students' Work Transition Based on Bourdieu's Theory

• In Event: Using Bourdieusian Tools to Tackle Complex Phenomena

Abstract

Universities in China are carrying out study abroad programs, including degree and non-degree programs with its overseas partner universities. This study conducted in-depth interview with 25 Chinese engineering students who joined double-degree programs in US and currently are at their early career. The study aims to analyze the work transition of these Chinese engineering students using Bourdieu’s theory and self-formation theory. The study finds: study abroad opportunities are only for middle-class families; these students own ‘habitus’ that trained them good English and set studying abroad as their learning goal; they encountered challenges in ‘legitimate language’ during job search; they used social connections to apply for jobs; they strategically do self-formation as their own agencies to succeed in job search.

Author

• Cathy Huang, University of Hong Kong