The aspiration for social distinction: Malaysian students in a British university

This article reports on research exploring the extent to which a group of Malaysian students in a British university expect to secure a competitive edge in the positional race for jobs, income and status. It explores the students’ understandings of a good job and success, as well as their perceived chances of fulfilling their aspirations. Qualitative, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 10 students. Interviewees assumed a direct link between a prestigious UK degree and better material and status incentives. Felt obligations to ensure inter‐generational mobility shaped their life projects. Private sector work and global labour mobility were particularly attractive for participants from ethnic minority backgrounds. While interviewees were confident of achieving their goals, some uncertainties were felt. The article concludes with suggestions for future research on middle‐class practices of distinction in the global education marketplace.