Community College Fosters Youth Preparedness for Transfer to a Four-Year University

• In Event: 65.034 - Community College Students: Focus on Course Taking, Transfer, and Students From the Foster Care System

Abstract

Community colleges often provide underserved student populations an opportunity to pursue higher education. This qualitative case study shares the experiences of foster youth navigating the transfer process to a four-year university. Drawing from the Student/Institutional Engagement Model, this paper explores the role of institutional agents in providing support at a community college. Findings suggest students need a formalized program that guides foster youth through the personal, academic and institutional challenges that influences the transfer process. Themes emerging from the study include: lack of transfer knowledge and academic struggles; need for additional relational support; and, role of formalized on-campus support system.

Authors

• Ronald Hallett, University of the Pacific

• Melinda A Westland, University of the Pacific