The Role of Confianza Between Latinx Students and Faculty in the Undergraduate Research Process

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 29
  In Roundtable Session: Latinx Leadership Across the Educational Pipeline

Abstract

Student-faculty interactions are often cited as one of the most significant factors that contribute to positive social and academic outcomes for Latinx college students. Specifically, interactions which focus on students’ academic progress as well as their personal well-being have shown to contribute to their retention in college through graduation. Despite decades of research on faculty-student interactions, missing is a nuanced understanding of the factors that can contribute to such positive experiences. The purpose of this study is to explore student-faculty interactions through the undergraduate research process from the perceptions of students of Mexican descent. Findings suggest that students felt a sense of confianza with their research faculty mentors through common identities, language, and a shared commitment to marginalized communities.

Author

• Rocio Mendoza, California State University - Long Beach