Sunwoo Joo, a Laidlaw Scholar at the University of Hong Kong, explores the Impacts of Early Migration on 1.5-Generation Immigrants
Research Title:
The Impacts of Early Migration on 1.5-Generation Immigrants
My research looks at the impacts of early migration of 1.5-generation immigrants at the level of identity formation, language switching and sense of belongingness. Transnational migration is a form of migration that takes place across national borders, and has been emerging since the late 1990s. The term 1.5-generation immigrants does not have a rigid definition according to previous literature, but Rumbaut (2004) defined it as having emigrated to the host country between the ages of 6-12. Individuals of this particular group are unique as they have experiences living in both their country of origin and host country, hence learning about their lived experiences help improve our understanding of the migration processes through a young person’s lens in a globalised world (Yoon, 2012). Since research on 1.5-generation immigrants is relatively under-researched outside of North America, I wanted to explore the multi-faceted impacts of migration for this specific group, whilst also comparing how the processes may differ for migrants from different ethnic backgrounds. It would expand the understanding of the “in-between generation” immigrants and allow their experiences to be voiced in order to help them adjust better to host countries, and embrace their cultural diversity.
Where did your passion for this research originate?
My passion for this research goes back all the way to my Extended Essay for the IB curriculum at my high school. This project is essentially a 4,000-word paper on our personal research interest. At the time, when I was brainstorming my first-ever research project, my initial thought was to do something that lies close to my heart, which is why I decided to get inspiration from my upbringing. I followed my parents and moved to Hong Kong at the age of six, having the opportunity to grow into a bicultural individual and identifying with both my Korean roots and Hong Kong culture. During the adjusting period, I felt as though I went through different stages to reach biculturalism, hence this project derived from those moments. I also noted that most of my friends also resonate with more than one culture, and are 1.5-generation immigrants, therefore it was interesting to see how this group had very specific needs compared to other generation immigrants. As there is an increasing number of immigrants, this research is not only relevant on a personal level, but also to guide communities on strengthening multiculturalism.
How have you applied your leadership skills in real life? What are some insights & lessons from your experience?
My Leadership-in-Action project took place this summer in Hong Kong with The Zubin Foundation, a local non-governmental organization that aims to improve the lives of low income ethnic minority individuals at different stages of life. My main tasks involved helping the organization promote their weekly activities and workshops on social media, as well as preparing for their annual fundraising dinner and impact report, highlighting their work on the local ethnic minority community. I think the main takeaways I had from the project was 1) learning to be more vocal about my opinions, 2) being proactive and asking for constructive feedback on my work to check up on my progress and continuous improvement.
Recently, as part of my final year counselling capstone project, my group partnered again with The Zubin Foundation to provide a four-workshop parallel group intervention for mothers and children with special educational needs (SEN) and their siblings. This was a very meaningful project working for a cause that I am passionate about, which would not have been possible if I had not learnt the critical leadership skills from the previous project. Throughout these workshops, I was able to further build on my confidence and ability to lead large groups, as well as being a proactive member and suggesting ideas during the initial stages. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to work with the partnering organization to build an innovative and memorable experience that meets the needs of different stakeholders, such as the families of children with special educational needs, The Zubin Foundation, and our group as counseling students.
Poster presentation for the Leadership in Action project
Sunwoo's Top Leadership Tips:
Being proactive and actively engaging in various projects beyond my assigned role
Stepped out of my comfort zone, seeking clarity where needed
Commitment to collaborative learning and fostering an inclusive environment
What does it mean for you to be a Laidlaw Scholar?
Being a Laidlaw Scholar has truly been the best experience of my undergraduate years. I met so many great Scholars who are all very passionate for the research and cause they work for, and it has been really fulfilling to learn from my peers. The Laidlaw Scholarship program consisting of different components has allowed me to grow holistically, whether it be finding my true passion for research in social and cultural psychology or gaining important leadership skills that will enable me to convert the research findings into real-life practice. My supervisors have helped me immensely in this process, and I am grateful that I had a chance to learn from them to become a well-rounded individual.
Which particular leaders inspire you the most and why?
I would say I was deeply moved by the founder of The Zubin Foundation, because of the way she is able to carry the organization through her inspirational words and powerful ways of delivering the importance of caring for ethnic minorities in the Hong Kong community. I think it is also important to note that even though their organization has grown to become a large-scale NGO, it is admirable that they have not expanded to other countries and maintain their focus in Hong Kong, keeping to the reason why they have started the NGO in the first place. I strive to be a well-spoken leader, who never forgets the cause or passion that initiated it, but also continue learning about the field and provide evidence-based projects in the community to improve the lives of minorities.
Briefly describe a scene from the future you are striving to create.
The immigrants would also receive the appropriate support they need to adapt into the new community, such as having language classes, translation services, community and psychological support from non-governmental organizations. They would also maintain good connections with both of their cultures, and embrace their multiculturalism. Ultimately, I imagine an environment where the locals and immigrants get along together, and create a multicultural and inclusive community where no one gets left behind due to language barriers or value differences.
Spending time for self-development (dancing and going to pilates).
If you want to learn more about Sunwoo's work, explore her research here and follow her on LinkedIn. Sunwoo Joois a Laidlaw Undergraduate Leadership and Research Scholar at the @The University of Hong Kong. Become a Laidlaw Scholar to conduct a research project of your choice, develop your leadership skills, and join a global community of changemakers from world-leading universities.
Please sign in
If you are a registered user on Laidlaw Scholars Network, please sign in