Sense of Belonging: A Longitudinal Study of Minority Engineering Doctoral Students

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 3:45 pm - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Navigating Belonging & Identity: Diverse Doctoral Journeys

Abstract

This longitudinal study examines how 15 engineering PhD students from historically marginalized backgrounds perceive their sense of belonging during their first year. Using Strayhorn’s framework, we describe the evolution of sense of belonging specifically focusing on rupture repair instances. We found that, rather than a static trait, sense of belonging emerged as a dynamic process shaped by institutional conditions and student agency. These findings highlight the need for sustained, identity-conscious support structures that move beyond onboarding and affirm belonging as an ongoing experience in doctoral education.

Authors

• Mayra S Artiles, The Ohio State University

• Jordan Peyton, Ohio State University

• Rachel Figard, University of Georgia

• Holly M. Matusovich, Virginia Tech

• Juan Manuel Cruz, Rowan University

• Stephanie G. Adams, University of Texas at Dallas