After High School, What’s Next? Exploring Refugee Youths’ Perceptions and Preparations Around College Choice and Transition

Abstract

Higher education can offer refugee youth a route to economic advancement and improved quality of life. However, the decision to pursue college poses a unique set of challenges and considerations. Drawing on Perna’s conceptual model of student college choice, this study employs a phenomenological approach to examine refugee students’ motivations and perceptions of college as well as their career aspirations. Semi-structured interviews with 15 refugee students revealed a strong desire to go to college and pursue a STEM career; an unfamiliarity with the college process; and a preference for community colleges. Modifications to using Perna’s model to better capture refugee youth’s college choice experiences are discussed. Findings from this study yields important insights regarding how high schools can offer guidance to refugee youth on the college choice process.