Publication Date
Spring 5-10-2025
Document Type
Action research project: Open access
Degree Name
MA Higher Education Leadership
Department
Leadership Studies
Abstract
The Torero Renaissance Scholars Program (TRSP) supports undergraduate and graduate students who have experienced foster care, homelessness, or who are emancipated minors or in legal guardianship. My action research aimed to explore and improve TRSP practices related to sharing personal narratives, community building, and fostering mutual understanding between students, campus, and community partners. Using an action research model focused on community engagement, I conducted three research cycles involving narrative inquiry-based individual interviews and surveys to evaluate group activities. Findings revealed a tension around sharing personal stories and highlighted the importance of self-authorship and holistic mentorship. Interviews showed students prioritize resources critical to financial and academic success, while also valuing connections within the TRSP community. Further evaluation of TRSP programs underscored the value of facilitating both individual reflection and community building. Additionally, it emphasized the importance of empowering students to participate in events that encourage sharing personal narratives.
Digital USD Citation
Rock, Sara, "Empowering Voices: The Impact of Collective Storytelling Within College Support Programs" (2025). M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects. 140.
https://digital.sandiego.edu/soles-mahel-action/140
Copyright
Copyright held by the author
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a CC BY-NC-ND License.
Included in
Academic Advising Commons, Educational Leadership Commons, Higher Education Commons, Leadership Studies Commons
