A Deeper Calling: The Aspirations and Persistence of Black Undergraduate Students in Science

• In Event: 51.037 - Embracing the Whole Student: Perspectives on College Student Development

Abstract

While the reasons Black students leave science degree programs have been investigated, the strengths and strategies that Black students use to succeed in science are less clear. In this qualitative study, we investigated the Community Cultural Wealth (i.e., knowledge, skills, abilities, and contacts that Students of Color use to reach educational success and to navigate and resist micro and macro forms of oppression) that 20 Black undergraduate students bring to their science degree programs. Data collection included two semi-structured interviews and participant-generated photographs. Findings highlight mechanisms and factors that support Black students’ persistence in science degree programs and provide context for structural and systemic challenges faced by student participants.

Authors

• Oluwadamilola (Lola) J babatola, University of Georgia - Athens

• Darris Roshawn Means, University of Georgia

• Omowunmi Oni, University of Georgia - Athens

• Chimezie Justin Osondu, University of Georgia - Athens

• Birook Mekonnen, University of Georgia

• Julie Dangremond Stanton