Prior research has largely examined determinants of student satisfaction in four-year institutions and faculty job satisfaction in two-year institutions. The present study investigated the relationship between background traits, initial commitments, and satisfaction among African Americans attending two-year community colleges. Findings reveal that age is positively associated with satisfaction, while family responsibilities are inversely related to students' subjective evaluation of college. Regression results account for 13% of the variance in student satisfaction. Important implications for future research and practice are highlighted. (Contains 3 tables.)