Social Class and the Development of Sense of Campus Belonging in Students From Adverse Backgrounds

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Thirteen
  In Roundtable Session: Strengthening Persistence, Belonging, and Sense of Support for College Students (Table 1)

Abstract

Drawing on a unique sample of data which follows students from adverse backgrounds over four years of college, the proposed study investigates the factors influencing the development of sense of belonging during college, with particular focus on the potential moderating role of selectivity and student body wealth. Findings include the important role first-generation status and campus involvement play in sense of belonging, and point to the moderating influence of selectivity and student body wealth for certain populations, suggesting the profound role that the disconnect between sociodemographic characteristics and the institutional environment might have on the sense of belonging of students from adverse backgrounds.

Authors

• Gregory C. Wolniak, Mathematica Policy Research, Inc
  Presenting Author

• Emily Chen-Bendle, University of Georgia
  Presenting Author

• Sarah Catherine Burman, Kennesaw State University
  Presenting Author

• Ty E. Kunzman, University of Georgia
  Presenting Author