Publication Date
Summer 8-9-2021
Document Type
Action research project: Open access
Degree Name
MA Higher Education Leadership
Department
Leadership Studies
Abstract
In the fall of 2019, institutionalized data reported that Asian American undergraduate students had a lower sense of belonging at the University of San Diego (USD) in comparison to white peers. This action research paper explores the needs and experiences of the Asian American undergraduate student population at USD— a predominantly white, private, religious-based institution. This research is centered around the question, “How can Student Affairs professionals better understand and support Asian American undergraduate students and their sense of belonging at a predominantly White institution?” Through ten semi-structured interviews and one community focus group, participating students associated their sense of belonging on campus with community, authenticity, and feelings of safety— socially, emotionally, and physically. Additionally, their stories included personal experiences of culture shock, code-switching, the crucial role that faculty and multicultural-based student organizations play in fostering Asian American students’ sense of belonging, and addressing the politics of belonging.
Digital USD Citation
Jang, Miso, "Asian American Undergraduates Sense of Belonging at a Predominantly White Institution" (2021). M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects. 83.
https://digital.sandiego.edu/soles-mahel-action/83
Copyright
Copyright held by the author
Comments
A huge thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my research process. I appreciate you all so much!