Publication Date
Spring 5-10-2021
Document Type
Action research project: Open access
Degree Name
MA Higher Education Leadership
Department
Leadership Studies
Abstract
The purpose of my research was to examine the Southeast Asian American (SEAA) identity in connection to performance and sense of belonging at institutions of higher education. The central focus was trying to understand the SEAA experience as opposed to the “model minority” narrative that is typically associated with the Asian American community. My research questions are what is the impact of their SEAA identity on their navigation in higher education? How do these students make meaning of their identity and sense of belonging at UC San Diego? How can I increase the visibility of the Southeast Asian American narrative at UC San Diego? And how can the new insights I learn help inform better resources and services to support their success and connection to the university? I found that students do not often get the opportunities to reflect on their identities and what that means to them, specifically their SEAA identity. Students require more support at the institutional level for programming and spaces on campus to contribute to a greater sense of belonging and a positive impact on their academic success.
Digital USD Citation
Vilaysith, Kathy, "Pulling off the Curtain on the Southeast Asian American Student Experience at UC San Diego" (2021). M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects. 76.
https://digital.sandiego.edu/soles-mahel-action/76
Copyright
Copyright held by the author
Comments
Recipient, Outstanding Student of the Year, 2021.