Supports and Hindrances of College-going Foster Youth: Perspectives from Student Affairs Practitioners

• In Event: Towards Leveling the Playing Field: Insights on the College-Going Experiences of Foster Care Alumni

Abstract

Utilizing a case study approach, the purpose of this study was to identify factors that hinder and/or support the college retention and degree completion of former foster youth in the California Central Valley. Individual interviews were conducted with twelve higher practitioners and administrators that serve former foster youth in colleges and universities. This study adds to the limited literature on former foster youth in higher education in a very unique region of the United States. Preliminary findings suggest that significant barriers to retention include housing instability, financial difficulty, lack of connection with a caring adult, academic challenges, need for mental and emotional support, and transportation. Resources that help support are housing assistance, access to emergency funds, assistance with food, scholarships and financial assistance, transportation, and assistance with child care.

Authors

• Kizzy M. Lopez, California State University, Fresno

• Kenyon Lee Whitman, University of California, Riverside