The impact of student involvement and engagement on African American undergraduate success in college

The primary purpose of the study was to investigate student involvement and engagement levels and its impact on various aspects of student life on selected African American students at Rowan University. Data were collected by means of a Likert-style survey. In addition, a focus group was conducted consisting of students from the survey sample. Data analysis from the survey suggests that faculty involvement and active/collaborative learning in the classroom are very important to academic success in college. Holding an internship, making class presentations, and tutoring other students were reported as having a positive impact on GPA. From the focus group, students reported feeling lower expectations from instructors which serve as a distraction. Also, it was reported that younger students used peers as a source of influence and advisement while the older students looked to faculty and advisors for advice