Role of Family, Culture, and Peers in the Success of First-Generation Cambodian American College Students

Authors

Jennifer Tang, California State University, Long BeachFollow
Simon Kim, California State University, Long BeachFollow
Don Haviland, California State University, Long BeachFollow

Abstract

Cambodian American college students are often overlooked in academe because of the model minority myth. The stereotype overshadows the challenges and heterogeneity in the Asian American and Pacific Islander population. This exploratory study examined the experiences of 13 first-generation Cambodian American college students at a large, public institution in California. Findings revealed that, despite obstacles of being first-generation with limited cultural capital, students were transformed into successful leaners when they received validation from their parents and peers and felt a sense of belonging to the college community through their involvement in an ethnic-based student organization.

Recommended Citation

Tang, Jennifer; Kim, Simon; and Haviland, Don (2013) "Role of Family, Culture, and Peers in the Success of First-Generation Cambodian American College Students," Journal of Southeast Asian American Education and Advancement: Vol. 8 : Iss. 1, Article 2.
DOI: 10.7771/2153-8999.1057
Available at: https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/jsaaea/vol8/iss1/2