# “I Call It Health Science, Not Nursing”: Male International Students Balancing Nursing Career Aspirations With Cultural Expectations

## TL;DR

Male South Asian nursing students in Australia face cultural stigma and use strategies like linguistic camouflage to pursue their careers.

## Contribution

The study introduces the concept of linguistic camouflage and highlights the intersection of cultural expectations and personal aspirations in nursing education.

## Key findings

- Male South Asian students use terms like 'health science' to avoid cultural stigma associated with nursing.
- Participants face familial pressure and gender stereotypes but are motivated by migration and personal freedom.
- The study emphasizes the need for curriculum reforms and culturally competent faculty training.

## Abstract

Male South Asian international nursing students in Australia navigate a complex interplay of cultural expectations, personal aspirations, and gender stereotypes. These students often encounter stigma and familial pressure due to their pursuit of a non-traditional career in nursing.

A qualitative descriptive design involving 11 participants was employed. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis framework informed by principles of transnationalism, intersectionality, and identity work.

Participants strategically employed linguistic camouflage, referring to their studies as “health science” rather than “nursing.” Motivations for pursuing nursing included migration opportunities, economic considerations, and aspirations for personal freedom and self-acceptance. The term “nurse” carried significant cultural baggage.

This study reveals the strategic and pragmatic nature of these students’ career choices. Despite facing unique challenges, including navigating a hostile educational environment, participants demonstrated remarkable resilience. Findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive support programs, curriculum reforms that challenge gender stereotypes, and faculty training in cultural competence to promote inclusivity and empower these students.