Connection, Culture, and Career: Framework for Understanding College Selection Through Black Women’s Narratives

• In Event: Black Women's Post Secondary Educational Futures: Imagining New Possibilities Through A Living Digital Archive

Abstract

Data in the living digital archive capturing Black women's educational experiences reveals that Black women's college choice decisions are influenced beyond traditional considerations like cost, major of study, and location. This paper shows that Black women are influenced by four key factors. First, they prioritize personal connections and familiarity, often following friends, family members, or mentors to institutions where they feel comfortable and supported, as one participant noted choosing a school where her friend had already established connections for a smoother transition. Second, they rely heavily on institutional guidance and recruitment, with high school counselors, college recruiters, and targeted outreach playing crucial roles in their decisions—many participants were swayed by recruiters who made them feel valued and wanted. Third, cultural fit and community are paramount, with many choosing HBCUs to experience supportive environments where they could celebrate their identity, as one participant described having "reverse culture shock" in a predominantly Black space but loving the sense of belonging it provided. Finally, they carefully consider institutional reputation, flexibility, and career advancement opportunities, balancing prestige with practical needs like online programs for working mothers or community colleges for accessibility, demonstrating that Black women make strategic, multifaceted decisions that prioritize both academic success and personal well-being.

Author

• Nadrea Njoku, Escend