A Case Study of Marginalized Community College Student Parents and Their Decisions About College, Careers, and Campus Resources

• In Event: Policies, Practices, and Literature About College Access

Abstract

Objective: Community colleges are the main entry point for higher education for student parents and to increased job opportunities and well-paying careers. We use a conceptual framework that bridges career capital and a community cultural wealth model to understand college and career trajectories for student parents. Method: This qualitative case-study draws from individual and focus group interviews with 49 student parents to better understand how they utilize their knowledge and lived experiences. Results: Data analysis speaks to a) student parents difficulty maneuvering life as a college student and parent; b) and the importance of their support networks as they seek to support and information.

Authors

• Adrian H. Huerta, University of Southern California

• Cecilia Rios-Aguilar, University of California - Los Angeles

• Daisy Ramirez, University of California - Los Angeles