The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of fitting-in and belonging on African American women enrolled in graduate counseling programs attending a Predominantly White Institution (PWI). This study examined how racial identity influenced each woman's unique experiences of fitting-in and belonging. Each participant had to self-identify as a women, an African American or a Black American born women, and be currently enrolled in a graduate counseling program. Overall findings of the study found that racial identity did impact the experience of both fitting-in and belonging for the participants. The data identified three separate clusters or cohorts of students who acknowledge that race identity impacted their experiences at a PWI along with the perspective of fitting-in and belonging. The participant cohort which was defined utilizing Cross Racial Identity Scale (CRIS) included: (1) High, those that reject negative stereotypes about Blacks, have less self-hate, and a willingness to work with others, (2) Low those that are not Pro-Black or Anti-Black, Pro-White or Anti-White, these individuals avoid dealing with issues of race and (3) Pre-Encounter, those that accept negative stereotypes about Blacks, have self-hate, and attitudes of miseducation or assimilation. Implications are discussed for training, counseling, and future student support. [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.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]