An Exploratory Study on the College Pathways and Experiences of Asian American Community College Students

• In Event: Roundtable Session 33
  In Roundtable Session: Telling the Asian American Story Through Education

Abstract

Contrary to the model minority myth that portrays Asian Americans as academic all-stars over-represented in elite four-year institutions, half of all Asian American college students do in fact attend community colleges, and many experience myriad challenges. This exploratory study investigated the college pathways of Asian American community college students and explored how family, culture, the model minority myth, and institutional practices and policies influence their college experiences. The qualitative analysis provided a deeper understanding of the expectations, experiences, and views of Asian American community college students, a virtually unstudied population. Data collected for this study sought to benefit administrators, student development officials, policy makers, and faculty with identifying, understanding, and addressing the needs of Asian American community college students.

Author

• Amanda E. Assalone, Southern Education Foundation, Inc.