From Early College to Graduate School: Highlighting Multiple Experiences of Latina Students in Hispanic-Serving Institutions

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

The four papers presented in this session will focus on the experiences of Latinas across various levels and spaces in a two- and four-year Hispanic-Serving Institution: Latinas in a majority Latinx Early College High School, undergraduates in a Latina mentoring program, Latinas majoring in STEM, and Latina graduate students in a group created for support. The qualitative and theoretical papers underscore the importance of supporting equitable practices for Latina college students, whose enrollment numbers continue to increase nationally. Although higher enrollment numbers are promising, it is imperative for institutions to support practices that promote the academic success and well-being of these students. Through asset-based lenses, these papers provide examples of what is possible for Latinas when validating spaces are fostered.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Research on Women and Education

Chair

• Ruth María López, University of Arizona

Papers

• Graduating During a Pandemic: Experiences of Latina Students in an Early College High School - Ruth María López, University of Arizona; Vincent D. Carales, University of Houston

• Latina Resilience in STEM: Strategies of Success in a Texas Hispanic-Serving Institution - Elsa M. Gonzalez, National Science Foundation; Emma Claudia Perez, Texas A&M University

• Latinas REACH: A Counter-Space to Support Latina Graduate Student Success - Laura Zavala-Membreno, University of Houston; Anneliese Bustillo, University of Houston

Discussant

• Erin Doran, Iowa State University