Voices Of Departure: A Phenomenological Study On African American College Students’ First-Year Decisions To Drop Out In Predominantly White Instutions

Author

Adrianne Leigh Meade, Prairie View A&M University

Date of Award

12-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree Discipline

Education Leadership

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences of first- year African American college dropouts from predominantly White institutions (PWIs). Guided by Swail’s Geometric Model of Student Persistence and Achievement, the study examined the factors influencing dropout rates among first- year African American PWI students. The study sought to foster dialogue and drive positive change in higher education, aiming to prevent further dropout rates among this student demographic. This study revealed that African American students who dropped out of predominantly white institutions (PWIs) within their first year faced significant barriers across social, cognitive, and institutional dimensions. By amplifying student narratives, this study highlights practical strategies to improve retention and promote success among first year, African American students in predominantly white institutions.

Keywords: dropout, retention, persistence, African American, predominantly White institutions

Committee Chair/Advisor

Stella Smith

Committee Member

Patricia Hoffman- Miller

Committee Member

Jerrel Moore

Committee Member

Brandie Green

Publisher

Prairie View A&M University

Rights

© 2021 Prairie View A & M University

Date of Digitization

1/22/2025

Contributing Institution

John B Coleman Library

City of Publication

Prairie View

MIME Type

Application/PDF

Recommended Citation

Meade, A. L. (2024). Voices Of Departure: A Phenomenological Study On African American College Students’ First-Year Decisions To Drop Out In Predominantly White Instutions. Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.pvamu.edu/pvamu-dissertations/107