Narrative Analysis of Students’ of Color Experiences at Predominantly White Institutions and the Implications of Support Systems

This study will look at support systems for students of color at predominantly White institutions. A review of the literature reveals that the supports that are needed for this population of students to ensure a positive experience are their family and peers from home and on campus and faculty/staff and on-campus services. A qualitative, exploratory study was conducted through interviewing seventeen participants who describe themselves as minorities within a predominantly White institution. The findings from this study revealed that the above aspects were seen as supports while at this institution and that there was also the underlying theme of perceptions of how the White population perceives the students of color. Implications of this research show that there needs to be more cultural awareness among all parties and more support systems in place to assist students of color through their time in predominantly White institutions