ERIC Number: ED590046
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2018
Pages: 162
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 978-0-4384-4650-2
ISSN: EISSN-
EISSN: N/A
The Forgotten Topic: A Study on the Transition College Experiences of Former Foster Youth
Kenton, David Hopeton
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, The Florida State University
The educational trajectory of foster care students in the United States is often delayed. However, there are foster care students who have been able to successfully navigate the educational pipeline and complete a college degree (Batsche et al., 2012). The purpose of this study was to explore the transition experiences of foster care students from high school to a four-year university and to identify contributors to their adaption into the college environment. This study challenges previously held beliefs by focusing on the actual rather than perceived contributors to their success while in college. Data from this study came from demographic questionnaires and 60-90-minute interviews with 11 qualified study participants. The study participants provided multifaceted responses about their transition experiences to the university. Findings and themes which emerged from the study focused on the experiences of transferring from a state college, being homeless, and identifying helpful support resources during their transition process. Study participants discussed the need for utilizing campus resources, developing transition strategies, and the importance of networking and engagement. The study results also provided insight into practices not considered helpful by foster care students. The discussion and implication section provide suggested resources for foster care programs and university administrators who support this population. Future research recommendations focused on self-development and program effectiveness followed by concluding thoughts. [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: Foster Care, College Students, Student Experience, Student Adjustment, Homeless People, College Transfer Students, Student Personnel Services, Student Attitudes
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A

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