The Transnational Experience

“Nationalism is so big in Mexico and then one day they had me pledging allegiance to another flag bro I was shooketh.”

— Transnational student and current educator of transnational students

  • “These families are in a completely new environment and adjusting to new rules and customs takes time. These families are usually underpaid and uneducated, leaving them vulnerable. Adapting to their needs is essential for student success.”

    — Transnational Educator

  • “The way that most adults in the school system spoke to me and treated me when I entered 9th grade in the US felt diminishing, they spoke to me in a way that I had not experienced since I had finished elementary.”

    — Transnational Student

  • The fact that you can’t be present for all the things that they may need, not only physically but for comfort, help, support or things as simple as cooking their favorite meal, economy is also a very important issue, although education is free, some extra curricular activities require investment and a person to drive them around when needed

    — Parent of Transnational Children

  • Tener que asimilarse a una cultura nueva y un idioma nuevo conlleva mucho retos. Sin emargo no representan un problema de inteligencia o abilidades.

    — Hijo/a Transnacional

  • “It would have helped A LOT to be told that GPA was a thing, that rankings were a thing, that pre-AP classes are a thing, that dual-enrollment courses were a thing…no one bothered to look at my previous grades or ask me about my academic expectations. I was not even informed about advanced classes, they simply assumed I must be stupid or something and did not even bother to offer them.”

    — Transnational Student

  • “Many of us struggle with more than just the language barrier. Many of us are trying to figure out living arrangements, financial situations, and a new education system. Many times our parents wish they were involved but don’t know where to start or how to do so when nothing is catered to their only spoken language”

    — Transnational Student

  • "Es muy importante la comunicación con las familias para lograr éxito en el estudiante"

    — Educador de estudiantes transnacionales

  • "The way that most adults in the school system spoke to me and treated me when I entered 9th grade in the US felt diminishing, they spoke to me in a way that I had not experienced since I had finished elementary. Thankfully this did not last long, but my intake process was greatly affected by this."

    — Transnational Student

  • "Do not assume we are unintelligent or uninterested in growing academically."

    — Transnational Student

  • "As a transitional child moving from my home country to the U.S., my biggest challenge was navigating the social aspect and building relationships. The cultural shock was intense, and while I was proficient in academic English, I struggled with social language, making it hard to connect with peers. Although I wasn't placed in a bilingual program due to my academic skills, I feel it could have helped me connect with other new arrivals and eased the transition."

    — Transnational Student

  • "El cambio de una escuela a otra es muy difícil y poder acoplarse a ello es un desafío que poco a poco lo vamos superando, solo quisiera que tengan un poco de paciencia porque no solo lidiamos con la escuela, si no que con un nuevo idioma , una nueva vida, una experiencia diferente a la que estamos acostumbrados."

    — Hijo/a Transnacional

  • "Having empathy is important. Not assuming you know what their going through is imperative. Every story is different. My story was different and each and everyone of my transitional friends had a different one. "

    — Transnational Student

  • "Ahora que soy maestra, me hubiera gustado que se les reconociera a mis maestras, ya que gracias a su apoyo y trabajado extra es que yo no me di por vencida y seguí aprendiendo cosas nuevas."

    — Hijo/a Transnacional

  • "It's important to understand that transitional students often bring diverse perspectives and experiences that can enrich the classroom. They may face unique challenges, such as language barriers and adapting to new educational systems, but with the right support and understanding, they can thrive."

    — Transnational Student

  • "Encouraging inclusivity and fostering a welcoming environment can make a significant difference in their adjustment and success. Additionally, recognizing and celebrating their cultural backgrounds can help them feel valued and respected. Create those opportunities for them to share where they come from, that will make the difference and set the tone for a safe and inclusive environment."

    — Transnational Student

  • "Teachers should check in regularly with newcomer students, as they often face culture shock and social challenges. Some families move for reasons like safety or financial difficulties, making the transition even harder. Even those who come from privileged backgrounds can feel alone and unseen. It's crucial for teachers to be aware of these emotional struggles, as they can impact academic performance. Regularly touching base with these students can help ensure their well-being and success in school."

    — Transnational Student

  • "Que es difícil para nosotros estar lejos de nuestros padres, adaptarnos a las costumbres y reglas de otras familias y más aún vivir el cambio de la niñez a la adolescencia sin ellos."

    — Hijo/a Transnacional

  • "El apoyo, en todas las áreas, es fundamental para hacerlos sentir seguros y comprendidos "

    — Educador de estudiantes transnacionales