In Their Own Words: High-Achieving, Low-Income Community College Students Who Beat the Odds

• In Event: Poster Session 14
  In Poster Session: Poster Session on the Social Context of Research on Schools and Communities

Abstract

Although economically-disadvantaged community college students experience low achievement, retention and transfer rates, there exists a high-achieving, low-income student phenomenon about which we know surprisingly little. Twenty-five community college students participated in this study. Data collected from surveys and individual, semi-structured interview transcripts were analyzed for strategies, relationships, and experiences. Findings indicate that students encounter both economic and organizational impediments to their success. Interactions with and interventions by institutional representatives contribute greatly to student persistence and success. Perceived professorial attitudes and teaching practices were prominent factors. Students of color identified socio-political realities, such as immigration status and experiences with racism, as barriers to their success. Implications for policy and practice include outreach, curriculum, and professional development reforms.

Author

• Carmen Carrasquillo, San Diego Miramar College