Between Two Countries: The Impact of Globalization and Deglobalization on Generation 1.5 Chinese International Students in the U.S.

This study examines how Generation 1.5 Chinese international students, those who moved to the U.S. as teenagers and completed secondary education there, construct their identities amid globalization and the growing trend of deglobalization. Through in-depth interviews with 10 participants, it explores how they navigate their transnational experiences, negotiate belonging, and respond to shifting cultural expectations and perceptions from both China and the U.S. Using critical thematic analysis, the study goes beyond identifying recurring themes by analyzing the power relations, discourses, and sociopolitical dynamics that shape participants’ experiences. Findings reveal that geopolitical tensions, restrictive policies, and evolving public discourse in both countries influence not only the students’ educational and career decisions but also how they see themselves. This research contributes to broader discussions on identity, power, and mobility, offering insight into the lived experiences of Gen 1.5 international students at the intersection of competing national narratives and global forces.