Exploring Link Between University Housing Policies, Student Belonging, and Discrimination Perceptions for Underrepresented Minority Students

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Critical Examination of Race, Ethnicity, Class, and Gender Roundtable: Mapping Disparities and Creating "Seats at the Table" for Student Access and Success

Abstract

Past research has shown that roommates can play a significant role in shaping college experiences. A positive first year can set the tone for academic performance, retention, and a feeling of social belongingness. To diversify the student body, universities have adopted a variety of housing policies to encourage intercultural communication and decrease social homophily. But are these efforts working? Utilizing a quantitative approach, this study examines the relationship between roommate assignments, underrepresented minority (URM) status, and students' perceptions of discrimination. Results show that despite having random roommate assignments, URM students are still more likely to room with other URM students, permeating racial/ethnic homophily and highlighting a need for more effective solutions to promote diversity and inclusion in student experiences.

Authors

• Jessica Cai, Northwestern University

• XunFei Li, University of California - Irvine