Moving From Knowing to Doing: Students of Color Engaging in Participatory Action Research in a Social Justice, College Access Program

Session Submission Type: Invited Session

Abstract

Results of a study on the college experiences of student participants in a social justice college access program. This study extends beyond its initial research objective several years ago that examined its participants’ experiences in high school, and now purposes to understand the challenges its students encounter adjusting to college, and the resources and agency that is used to persist through college. The study explores five key factors impacting students’ experiences in higher education: 1) family support, 2) social life/support, 3) financial support, 4) campus resources, and 5) campus climate. The findings provide insight on the factors impacting students’ college experience and also reveal the complexity in the experiences of students of color in navigating a predominately white university.

Sub Unit

• Presidential Session

Chair

• Tyrone C. Howard, University of California - Los Angeles

Papers

• The Role of Family Support in Aiding First-Generation College Students - Lidia Alfaro, University of California - Los Angeles

• Examining the Effects of Campus Climate and Persistence to Graduation for Students of Color - Markeisha Chong, University of California - Los Angeles

• The Role of Financial Support in the Support of College Access for Low-Income Students - Tyrine Aman, University of California - Los Angeles

• Examining the Effects of a College Preparatory Program for First-Generation Students of Color - Neshemah Keetin, University of California - Los Angeles

• Examining Issues of Access and Opportunities in Urban Schools - Bree Blades, University of California - Los Angeles

Discussant

• Jonli Tunstall, University of California - Los Angeles