Undergraduate Latina/o Student Organizations: A Latina/o Critical Theory Analysis

• In Event: 60.084 - Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: 60.084-6 - Factors Affecting Latina/o Students' Transitions and Success

Abstract

While Latin@ college enrollment is on the rise, degree attainment continues to be an obstacle (Fry, 2011). As such, this study aims to better understand Latin@ college students by exploring undergraduate Latin@ student organizations (LSOs). To this end, interview, survey, focus group, observation, and document data answer the following question: How does LSO involvement foster or hinder Latin@ students’ journey at a predominantly White university? Results indicate that Latin@ students view LSOs as spaces of cultural, emotional, social, professional and academic support. However, findings also highlight difficulties with accusations of self-segregation and intragroup relations. Guided by Latin@ critical theory (LatCrit), this study views LSOs as culturally relevant tools of retention and has implications for retention and graduation rates.

Author

• Jessica Cruz, Ferris State University