The purpose of this study was to identify the ways in which veterans with disabilities navigate the process of transition from their lives as members of the military community to participants in the community college. This study analyzed the subset of veterans with disabilities in a community college to identify the support structures and services…

When students begin their education at community colleges, they may face more obstacles to obtaining their college education than students starting in four-year institutions. Research has shown the importance of academic and student services in the support of student athletes, that community college student athletes are often at academic risk, and…

Summer bridge programs (SBPs) improve the likelihood that students will succeed in postsecondary education. The majority of SBP research has focused on programs designed for underprepared high school graduates rather than nontraditional populations (i.e., older, [General Education Diploma] GED-holders, parents, etc.). This study sought to address…

This qualitative study explored community college student development during a study abroad program. The main research question was: How do community college students perceive the impact of participation in a study abroad program on their personal development? In addition, there were seven follow-up questions generated to understand students'…

This study qualitatively examines whether participation in a summer bridge program situated at a community college can help students acquire the academic and college knowledge as well as "social know-how" needed to attend and succeed at a four-year higher education institution. The study's theoretical framework helps to elucidate the…

A growing body of research points to the important role played by "institutional agents" in facilitating college access and success for students from non-dominant racial-ethnic and low socioeconomic status groups. Applying attachment theory, this study adds to that literature by demonstrating how institutional agents can provide a secure…

A majority of the studies conducted regarding transfer students is in conjunction with their academic performance and academic attainment at the four-year institution. However, minimal study has been done to identify what their other needs are once they reach the four-year institutions and how these needs influence persistence and success. Many…

In this dissertation, I study how Taiwanese vocational students as an oppressed group within the higher education system perceive, interpret, adapt or resist, and struggle to change the inequitable social structure. The theoretical framework in this research is constructed from Paulo Freire's ideas in "Pedagogy of the Oppressed,"…

This chapter summarizes theoretical perspectives and research findings on developmental education, and emphasizes the importance of considering students' voices and experiences in determining how best to facilitate growth and development in college.