Navigating New Horizons: Vietnamese English-Major Graduates in Non-Traditional Careers
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| Title: | Navigating New Horizons: Vietnamese English-Major Graduates in Non-Traditional Careers |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Le Thanh Thao (ORCID |
| Source: | TESL-EJ. 2024 27(4). |
| Availability: | TESL-EJ. e-mail: editor@tesl-ej.org; Web site: http://tesl-ej.org |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 24 |
| Publication Date: | 2024 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Vietnamese People, Majors (Students), Language Proficiency, English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Second Language Instruction, Student Characteristics, Foreign Countries, Student Attitudes, Phenomenology, Employment, Work Environment, Education Work Relationship, Self Efficacy, Cultural Differences, Job Skills, Interdisciplinary Approach, Educational Benefits, Resilience (Psychology) |
| Geographic Terms: | Vietnam |
| ISSN: | 1072-4303 |
| Abstract: | This phenomenological study seeks to explore the experiences of Vietnamese English-major graduates as they transition into out-of-expertise job roles in a globalized work environment. Drawing from a qualitative dataset gathered from 67 participants through semi-structured interviews, the research aimed to understand the perceived benefits, challenges, and emotional trajectories associated with such transitions. Key findings indicate that the majority of participants perceived their English proficiency as a significant advantage in diverse job markets. However, they also highlighted cultural challenges when adapting to global work settings, emphasizing the need to understand nuanced cultural norms beyond language proficiency. A recurrent theme was the perceived gap between the rich theoretical knowledge acquired during their academic tenure and its practical applicability in real-world job scenarios. Interestingly, participants also illuminated the unexpected interdisciplinary benefits of their English-major background, suggesting that their studies equipped them with valuable critical thinking and analytical skills. Issues of professional identity emerged strongly, with many participants expressing challenges in aligning their academic label with diverse job roles. Furthermore, the study highlights the profound emotional journey, from initial doubts to building resilience, as a significant aspect of these professional transitions. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2024 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1417779 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | This phenomenological study seeks to explore the experiences of Vietnamese English-major graduates as they transition into out-of-expertise job roles in a globalized work environment. Drawing from a qualitative dataset gathered from 67 participants through semi-structured interviews, the research aimed to understand the perceived benefits, challenges, and emotional trajectories associated with such transitions. Key findings indicate that the majority of participants perceived their English proficiency as a significant advantage in diverse job markets. However, they also highlighted cultural challenges when adapting to global work settings, emphasizing the need to understand nuanced cultural norms beyond language proficiency. A recurrent theme was the perceived gap between the rich theoretical knowledge acquired during their academic tenure and its practical applicability in real-world job scenarios. Interestingly, participants also illuminated the unexpected interdisciplinary benefits of their English-major background, suggesting that their studies equipped them with valuable critical thinking and analytical skills. Issues of professional identity emerged strongly, with many participants expressing challenges in aligning their academic label with diverse job roles. Furthermore, the study highlights the profound emotional journey, from initial doubts to building resilience, as a significant aspect of these professional transitions. |
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| ISSN: | 1072-4303 |
