The Canadian dream: international students and cruel optimism

Canada is a top destination for international students globally. Research on obtaining an undergraduate degree and its influence on future employment and fulfillment post-graduation often focus on current international students. I explored the less researched experience of international students who have chosen to remain in Canada post-graduation. Qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews from three participants provided insights into the challenges they faced and how their perception of the "Canadian Dream" has changed. This research could be beneficial for post-secondary administrators as well as prospective, current and prior international students in Canada.