This qualitative study examined the perceptions of African American college graduates who defied the odds by graduating in four to six years from a Predominantly White Institution in Pennsylvania. Graduation rates are significantly lower for African American college students, so shedding light on these students' experiences is very important. The goal of the study was to identify common experiences that allowed these graduates to successfully navigate these institutions. Utilizing the Anti-Deficit Achievement Framework by Dr. Shaun Harper, participants were interviewed about their experiences in a manner that solicited positive aspects of their experience. Ten African American graduates from public, Predominantly White Institutions in Pennsylvania participated in 30-60 minute interviews that highlighted their academic journeys, resulting in obtaining a bachelor's degree in four to six years. Four main themes emerged from the participants' responses: (a) family support and influence, (b) pre-college exposure, programming, and enrichment, (c) campus engagement and involvement, and (d) motivation, focus and resiliency. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]