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Abstract

This research examines familial influences on the educational and occupational aspirations of second-generation Lao American college students. In-depth, individual interviews were conducted with 10 Lao American college students. Findings from this study illustrate the value of familial relationships in students’ educational experiences and how these relationships are perceived to have considerable influence on students’ aspirations. Consistent with previous studies on aspiration development, the data suggests that Lao parents are highly influential on students’ aspirations. However, Lao American students also placed high value on the advice of extended family members, almost to the point where their influence appeared indistinguishable from parents. This paper also extends the research on aspiration development in immigrant populations by examining the influence of refugee migration.

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