School psychology practicum and internship: Exploring Asian and Asian American students' experience

The underrepresentation and unique challenges of Asian and Asian American graduate students in school psychology remain an underexplored area in the literature. This study explores the practicum and internship experiences of Asian and Asian American graduate students in school psychology, focusing on their unique challenges, protective factors, and recommendations for improvement. Using qualitative methods guided by AsianCrit theory, interviews with 15 participants revealed pervasive racialized experiences, including microaggressions, stereotypes, and discrimination, which negatively impacted their confidence, well-being, and performance. Participants highlighted barriers such as cultural differences, limited integration into practicum sites. Protective factors included cultural humility, bilingual skills, and support from supervisors, peers, and faculty. Participants emphasized the importance of fostering inclusive practicum environments, addressing racial inequities, and enhancing culturally responsive training in school psychology programs. Discussion and practical implications were provided to better support Asian and Asian American students in their practicum and internship training. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).