Qualitative Study of Counselors as Social Capital Agents for Undocumented/Citizen Students from Mixed-Status Families

• In Event: Connections, Expectations and Fit: Institutional Agents and Student Success

Abstract

Undocumented and citizen students from mixed-status families (UCM students) face significant barriers to college access due to their own or their family members' citizenship status. Drawing on social capital theory, Stanton-Salazar’s concept of institutional agents, and the Wisconsin Status Attainment Model’s idea of a significant other, this study identifies, positions, and conceptualizes public high school counselors as social capital agents for UCM students. As one of the first empirical studies to collect qualitative data from both high school counselors and UCM students, it explores how counselors support UCM students’ college transitions during a period of highly volatile immigration politics in recent U.S. history.

Author

• Jenifer L. Kelson, Claremont Graduate University