Skilled International Migration from the State of Mexico

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20043984

Abstract

This study explores skilled migration in the State of Mexico. It includes an examination of migrants’ educational attainment in the state, based on census data. Additionally, to highlight the processes they experience abroad, what they go through, their perceptions, and what these provide them (material goods, personal traits, and knowledge), 26 interviewees are included. They left with a university degree—completed or incomplete—but without formal recognition.The findings show that, over the past 30 years, most migrants from the State of Mexico come from urban areas and have higher levels of education, especially those who migrate to Europe, Asia, and countries other than the United States. It is noteworthy that they experience migration in a more rational manner; many improved their economic conditions, acquired various work-related skills, and underwent personal adjustments (maturing, overcoming shyness, adopting new habits, and gaining a broader perspective). However, especially those who migrate north are disappointed with migration, as they experience it in undocumented status, which entails difficult jobs, mistreatment, and a sense of lower social status compared to Mexico.