Stories of successful Latina college students at a predominantly white institution

• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2047/D20289561

The number of Latina college students enrolled in colleges and universities in the United States is at the highest level on record. As these students enter predominantly White institutions, it is imperative that colleges learn what services and systems support and are required for the academic success of these students. Challenges and barriers continue to rise for this population and it is affecting not only students but the universities they attend and ultimately the economy of the United States. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine how Latina college students understand success and how they persist at a Predominately White Institution. Three student participants were able to provide in depth narratives of their individual upbringing, early and undergraduate years of students at a PWI. Participants explained their perceptions of their own identity and described the individuals and services which allowed for their success. Participants also shared that they were greatly influenced by family, peers and staff members who took time out to support and challenge them. Participants also reported major financial challenges that almost affected their success. Participants attributed their success to three major themes, Resiliency, Cultural Values and Support Systems and how these factors played a role in their success. Additional student research is needed from other areas of Latin America who studied at different kinds of campuses in different regions of this country. This research focused on experience at one institution. The more varied the backgrounds and types of universities could have been helpful.