Female Students’ Aspirations and Study in the U.S.: Voices of Gen Z from Uzbekistan.

In this study, we investigate the educational migration experiences of females from Uzbekistan, the most populous country of the Central Asia region, to the United States of America. The particular focus is on Generation Z (Gen Z) females who are either current students in the USA or are willing to study there in the future. In our study, we examine the motives and experiences of Gen Z female students in selecting universities in the USA, and the challenges, obstacles, and opportunities they face. We use qualitative methodology and conducted in-depth interviews following phenomenological approach. Specifically, we focus on the aspects that contribute towards higher female participation rate for study in the US including socio-economics, financial, parental style and individual temperament. We find that these factors play a significant role in shaping female participation in international higher education migration, and specifically in the context of the United States. Our study reveals Uzbekistan’s progress in promoting gender equality within the education sector. Understanding these dynamics can guide policymakers in creating inclusive environments that empower Central Asian women in education and contribute to socio-economic development. Our findings provide valuable insights and implications for university administrators, labor markets, and civil society. We conclude with the perceptions of the future in the eyes of female Gen Z who are the change makers and the pivot of societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]