“I Never Seen Myself Going to College”: Intimate Inquiry, Renata, and Me

• In Event: Roundtable Session 54
  In Roundtable Session: (Re)storying in Qualitative Research

Abstract

This qualitative intimate inquiry explores the journey of one foster alumnus from high school drop out to four-year college student. A reflective narrative frames this two-year life history and a critical lens is used to view the identity capital of one raised by surrogate parents—the state. Jean serves as the heart of this study; I serve as a co-participant and the source that interprets and brings our story to life. This paper explores how the life of one speaks to the plight of many and how we can smooth out the transition processes for this underserved, historically marginalized group of young people seeking stability.

Author

• Melinda A Westland, University of the Pacific