Is there a strategy? Observing school and academic progression

In this chapter, data are presented in line with the chronological stages of youth integration into the school environment. Beginning with early kindergarten, the chapter traces the experiences of children entering elementary school, while also examining the choices some families made in enrolling their children in ethnic schools or in Japanese mainstream schools. It then follows the youths’ progression to upper secondary school – a stage marked by entrance examinations – highlighting how some students, equipped with greater resources and strategies, were able to navigate the school system more effectively than others. The chapter also explores family expectations and youths’ aspirations, showing how these influenced their educational trajectories. Finally, it concludes by examining their transition to tertiary education.