From the Margins to the Forefront: Perspectives of Doctoral Students of Color on the Socialization Process

• In Event: Investigating Doctoral Students’ Experiences and Perspectives

Abstract

In this study, we examine how students of color have experience the doctoral socialization process. While several models exist to explain doctoral student socialization, research supports that students of color may have divergent experiences. Using Gardner’s (2009) model for graduate student development as a framework, this study examines the challenges and support systems that doctoral students of color have. This research gives us a better understanding of their unique socialization experiences not covered in the literature. The themes the emerged from the data analysis are: marginalized and ignored, the importance of racial diversity, flexible support networks, and the need for additional support. Implications for policy and practice are shared to improve the experiences of doctoral students of color.

Authors

• Kimberly A. Truong, Northeastern University

• Samuel D. Museus, University of Hawaii - Manoa