Transfer pathways: A critical phenomenological study of Latinx community college students’ experience
Abstract
This phenomenological study aims to understand the lived experience of Latinx transfer
students as they navigate through the transfer process from a California community
college to four-year universities in California. Research on the transfer pathway focused
on Latinx students' intent to transfer, but struggle to do so, tackling equity gaps, and
institutional barriers that prevent Latinx students from transferring. The researcher used
interviews to better understand the Latinx perspectives of the transfer process. A
purposive sample technique was used to recruit nine Latinx community college students
from a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in a large metropolitan area in Southern
California. LatCrit theory was used to analyze the data and gain an understanding of the
transfer experience as Latinx students navigate through the transfer process and any
indications of oppression and marginalization. Five themes emerged: challenges are
associated with the transfer process, support and resources are critical for a successful
transfer experience, students are responsible for meeting transfer requirements, students
feel a sense of belonging, and accomplishments, goals, and inspiring others encourages
students to be motivated to succeed. This research will hopefully shed light on the Latinx
students' transfer experience and offer insight into improving the transfer and degree
attainment rates.
Subject
Education, Higher
Student affairs services
Community college students
Latin Americans
Hispanic Americans