Moving abroad as a child is difficult at first, but becomes a professional superpower in adulthood

Moving abroad for a parent's job is often a difficult and emotional experience for a child, filled with fear, anxiety, and sadness. However, the research by Mireka Caselius, who is defending her dissertation in the field of human resource management at the University of Vaasa, turns this notion on its head. Her study of so-called Third Culture Kids (TCKs) shows that the initial challenging experiences are not detrimental but, in the long run, become fuel that develops exceptional skills and drives them towards an international career.

The initial shock caused by the childhood experience abroad often triggers a domino effect, almost invariably leading to a chain of international studies and career paths. The study's interviewees also highlighted negative long-term experiences resulting from their childhood background. For example, feelings of rootlessness and restlessness can persist into adulthood.

From social chameleon to sought-after employee

The experiences gained abroad develop a unique combination of skills that make these young adults highly sought-after employees in the global job market.

– Being forced to adjust to a new culture and form new relationships at a young age develops skills that many others only begin to practice in adulthood. They grow into social chameleons with an exceptional tolerance for stress and uncertainty. In professional life, this is reflected in their ability to seamlessly integrate into diverse teams and cultures, Caselius summarises.

A childhood background is reflected in career choices: regardless of the field, they typically seek roles with an international dimension – whether in technology, healthcare, or marketing.

According to Caselius, companies do not yet fully recognise the immense potential of these young adults. Recruitment should pay more attention to the strengths developed during an international childhood.

– There is a huge amount of untapped potential here. These young adults are accustomed to uncertainty, adjust quickly, have excellent language skills, and possess a deep cross-cultural understanding. They could act as important links between, for example, a parent company and its foreign subsidiaries, Caselius says.

The study also emphasises the importance of supporting the entire family during the relocation process. Often, company support focuses on the employee, even though involving and supporting children is crucial for successful adjustment.

– The results are comforting for the thousands of families who consider moving abroad for work each year. Although the beginning can be difficult, in the long run, the experience provides children with important competenciesfor their future studies and careers, Caselius concludes.

Dissertation

Caselius, Mireka (2025) From international roots to global wings: adjustment experiences, career capital development, and the career interests of (adult) third culture kids. Acta Wasaensia 559. Doctoral Dissertation. University of Vaasa.

Publication pdf

Public Defence

The public examination of M.Sc. Mireka Caselius's doctoral dissertation, "From international roots to global wings: adjustment experiences, career capital development, and the career interests of (adult) third culture kids," will be held on Friday, 26 September, 2025, at 12:00 PM in the Kurtén Auditorium at the University of Vaasa.

The defence can also be followed remotely via Zoom: https://uwasa.zoom.us/j/64302209046?pwd=avbLpY1CYZByj9RfUOvwLA0DFGFbkN.1 
Password: 468285

The opponent will be Associate Professor Charlotta Niemistö (Åbo Akademi University) and the Custos will be Professor Vesa Suutari.