Development of the “Transition Is a Becoming” Metaphor

Abstract

The present chapter highlights a unique participatory arts intervention aimed at promoting a sense of belonging and enhancing recognition of existing capabilities among a cohort of undergraduate and graduate university students from the Indo-Pacific region. The intervention took the form of a drama-based workshop and reflection activity aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of the students' transferable qualities and behaviors in relation to university transition and career development. The concept of transition is examined through the lens of Gale and Parker's typology of induction, development, and becoming in the higher education ecosystem. The chapter details the analysis of students' metaphorical language to tap into personal and value-laden experiences of transition and offers insights to support career practitioners and university staff in recognizing, reframing, or developing culturally cognizant and agentic metaphors to aid in academic and socio-cultural adjustment and career preparation.