ERIC Number: ED660141
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 179
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3835-9065-2
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Navigating the Black Student First-Year Experience: Exploring Ways Peer Mentoring Can Enhance Engagement and Belonging at a PWI
Richard V. Frazier III
ProQuest LLC, Ph.D. Dissertation, Coastal Carolina University
Studies indicate that minoritized students attending Predominantly White Institutions (PWI) may struggle with engagement and establishing a sense of belonging. Peer mentoring may play a role in enhancing these opportunities to foster academic performance and retention. The sense of belonging and engagement for minoritized students at a PWI is essential to their academic sustainability. This qualitative narrative analysis study uses Strayhorn's (2012) theory of college students' sense of belonging as the theoretical framework to explore the peer mentoring experiences of 10 Black first-year students participating in a stand-alone model. Interviews were used to acquire insight into peer mentoring's influence on belonging and engagement while attending a PWI. The themes that emerged were (1) "Connectedness and Inclusivity" and (2) "Awareness and Utilization of Academic Support." The findings indicate peer mentees' connection to peers and peer mentors through bonding and social involvement experiences. Peer mentees were made aware and utilized academic and campus resources from academic referrals, mental health wellness, and food insecurity referrals. Strayhorn's theory of college students' sense of belonging showed that most mentees felt connected, valued, and mattered to their peer mentors. [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.]
Descriptors: African American Students, Predominantly White Institutions, Student School Relationship, College Freshmen, Peer Influence, Mentors, Program Effectiveness, Inclusion, Academic Support Services, Student Personnel Services
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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