From Challenge to Empowerment: Cross-Cultural Experiences and Perceptions of First-Generation Migrant Family Students

Although research on migrant students and their education exists, there is a lack of knowledge in Finland about the experiences and perceptions of successful First-Generation Migrant Family Students (FGMFS) in their educational path and transition from school to higher education. Therefore, this study aims to identify the main factors by which these students can successfully shape their educational pathway. Fifteen FGMFS pursuing higher education in Finland were interviewed, and, with the help of Grounded Theory (GT), three main categories — Individualism and Collectivism, Gender Role, and Critical Thinking — were identified as significant in coping with cross-cultural challenges and continuing their study in higher education successfully. The results of this study can help educational institutions create empowering environments to enhance the learning of FGMFS.