Education as a ‘group project’ : exploring Filipina migrant university students’ stories of ‘achievement’ : a thesis in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Health Science in Psychology at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand

Abstract

Migrating for the sake of the family—its survival, its betterment, its future—is a prevalent narrative among most Filipinos scattered around the world. Yet the stories of ‘the family’, particularly those of Filipino migrant students, whose parents have invested and sowed their hopes, dreams, and aspirations, remain a narrative that is not well understood. The purpose of my research was to share the stories of Filipina (female Filipino) migrant university students, such that through the lens of their everyday realities and experiences, they could speak about the significance and nuances of their achievements. Guided by a theoretical framework that combines elements of social constructionism, narrative approach, and Sikolohiyang Pilipino (Filipino psychology), I traced the meaningful threads within the photovoice kuwentuhan (storytelling or informal conversations) I had with six Filipina migrant university students in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Particular consideration was placed on how indigenous Filipino cultural beliefs and values saliently textured the women’s stories of achievement. What this thesis captures are the ways in which women’s education, achievement goals, cultural identity, and the notion of self as Filipina migrant university students are deeply intertwined, rich in complexity, and filled with layers of meaning. In particular, this research explores the complex key themes of education as a group project, utang na loob (debt of the inner self) and katatagang loob (inner strength and resilience). Weaving all these together enables previously unexplored opportunities for understanding the interconnected and interdependent nature of being a Filipino student. This research brings to life the educational journeys and overall wellbeing of migrant students, allowing readers and the whole collective kapwa to find pride, confidence, respect, and resilience as they see themselves reflected in these stories.