Experiences Contributing to the Success of High-Achieving Black Female Students at a Predominantly White Institution

• In Event: Black Women and Girls in the Education Pipeline

Abstract

Much of the literature regarding Black students at predominantly White institutions (PWI) focuses on their academic difficulty, while there is less attention paid to the performance of higher achieving Black students. Therefore, this study explored the lived experiences of high-achieving Black female students, focusing particularly on the experiences which contribute to their success at a PWI. The participants’ stories were explored both independently and collectively, reflecting a wide range of sentiments. The themes which emerged included: Support, Processing Situations, Defining Success, Involvement, Motivation, and Background. The emergent themes provided strategies and recommendations for Black female students, higher education practitioners, and institutions. These recommendations included areas regarding programming, and retention and recruitment strategies. Additionally, implications were made for future research.

Author

• Whitney P Watkins, Rollins College