#BlackBoyJoy: The College Aspirations of Rural African American Male Students

• In Event: Race and Place in Black Education

Abstract

The purpose of the current research study was to explore the post-secondary aspirations of rural Black male high school students using a nationally representative dataset. Using the High School Longitudinal Survey of 2009 (HSLS: 09), we analyze the postsecondary aspirations of Black male ninth graders and the associations among their aspirations, relationship with their school counselor, and knowledge of college. We find that rural black male ninth graders have high, college aimed postsecondary aspirations, and have the self-confidence to finish a baccalaureate degree. These high aspirations notwithstanding, there is a disconnect between their educational aspirations and college knowledge. This seems mediated by their underdeveloped relationship with school counselors.

Authors

• Crystal Renee Chambers, East Carolina University

• Loni Crumb, East Carolina University