Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

The Experience Of Latinas Attending Predominately White Colleges, Yolanda Ramos

Theses, Dissertations, and Projects

This study sought to gain an overall understanding of the experiences of Latinas that attend predominately white institutions (PWI). The research question explored was: What are the experiences that contribute to persistence, defined as continuing toward degree completion, for Latinas that attend PWI? Seven Latina students participated in each focus group conducted at two small, predominately White, liberal arts colleges in the Northeast. Participants were asked questions about their general college experiences, persistence experiences, family experiences, coping strategies, and recommendations. The study findings for Latinas attending PWI included beneficial and challenging experiences. Sharing their culture with others, being role models …