College Program for Academic Success: A Case Study on the Experiences of Students
Keywords:
Student success, Qualitative, Narrative inquiry, Student experience, Student perceptionsAbstract
This study examines the experiences of participants in a student success program at a midwestern U.S. university, focusing on the 2021 cohort. The program predominantly serves first-generation, non-traditional students and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds and marginalized communities, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Through a case study approach, three core themes emerged regarding the barriers these students face in college: personal investment, self-doubt, and confusion. The findings highlight a disconnect between the services offered by the program and the students’ perceived needs, suggesting areas for improvement to better support student success.
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