How Entrepreneurship Societies Influence the Entrepreneurial Intentions of International Students in Finnish Higher Education
Ekblad, Lotta Paulina (2024)
Ekblad, Lotta Paulina
2024
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024090524812
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024090524812
Tiivistelmä
This thesis explores the role of entrepreneurship societies in shaping the entrepreneurial intentions of international students in Finnish higher education. Through a qualitative research approach, the study investigates how participation in entrepreneurship societies influences students' aspirations, the challenges they face, and the strategies that can enhance their engagement. The research utilises the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Social Capital Theory, offering a robust framework for examining the factors that influence entrepreneurial intentions.
Key findings reveal that entrepreneurship societies significantly impact the development of entrepreneurial intentions by offering practical experiences, fostering confidence, and building essential social networks. However, challenges such as language barriers and cultural differences persist, affecting the full participation of international students. The study concludes with actionable recommendations for enhancing the inclusivity and effectiveness of entrepreneurship societies, emphasising the need for multicultural and inclusive leadership, strengthened networking opportunities, and increased institutional support from higher education institutions.
This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the unique needs of international students in entrepreneurial contexts and offers insights for higher education institutions to better support these students' entrepreneurial journeys.
Key findings reveal that entrepreneurship societies significantly impact the development of entrepreneurial intentions by offering practical experiences, fostering confidence, and building essential social networks. However, challenges such as language barriers and cultural differences persist, affecting the full participation of international students. The study concludes with actionable recommendations for enhancing the inclusivity and effectiveness of entrepreneurship societies, emphasising the need for multicultural and inclusive leadership, strengthened networking opportunities, and increased institutional support from higher education institutions.
This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the unique needs of international students in entrepreneurial contexts and offers insights for higher education institutions to better support these students' entrepreneurial journeys.