Latinx Community College Students' Pathway to Transfer and the Bachelor's Degree

• In Event: College Access, Community Colleges, and Geography

Abstract

This study examined pathways to transfer and the bachelor’s degree for 16 Latinx community college transfer students in California. The findings focus on Latinx students’ experiences during their transition from high school to college and the critical roles of validating individuals in supporting these students' aspirations to transfer and to earn a bachelor’s degree. The study highlights how educational and social conditions in high school inhibited participants’ early academic identities and college pathways and the important role of community college in students reshaping their commitment to a college education. The study elaborates on the agency, assets, and opportunities involved in students’ development of college and career aspirations and in successfully navigating transfer from community college to a 4-year university.

Authors

• Bertin Solis, University of California - Santa Barbara

• Richard P. Duran, University of California - Santa Barbara