Substance use among young adults from refugee, immigrant, and migrant (RIM) backgrounds is shaped by a complex interplay of cultural values, social expectations, and emotional stressors. Despite these unique lived experiences, RIM young adults remain underrepresented in substance use prevention research and programming. This qualitative study explored the attitudes, and beliefs surrounding substance use among undergraduate students with RIM backgrounds at Georgia State University. Three virtual focus groups were conducted in March 2025 with a total of 22 participants who self-identified as having RIM backgrounds. Transcripts were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis and an inductive coding approach. Nine key themes emerged: (1) Peer Pressure and Social Identity, (2) Coping with Stress and Emotional Distress, (3) Cultural and Environmental Transitions, (4) Concerns about Consequences, (5) Cultural and Religious Protective Factors, (6) Social and Familial Barriers to Quitting, (7) Accessibility and Cultural Gaps in Services, (8) Family, Faith, and Positive Peer Influence as Facilitators, and (9) The Dual Role of Family and Community Expectations. The findings illustrate the ways in which RIM young adults make substance-related decisions in the context of evolving cultural norms, mental health challenges, and community expectations. Strong values and support systems act as protective factors; however, stigma, inaccessibility of services, and the silence surrounding substance use present considerable barriers. This study highlights the necessity of prioritizing the lived experiences of RIM young adults in prevention strategies and developing culturally relevant, community-informed interventions that acknowledge both risk factors and resilience.