Researchers have combine various student populations of color and genders into one category when investigating the experiences of college students. By considering these individuals of different backgrounds and identities as one entity, the scholars assume that these individuals have similar experiences within academic environments; however, this results in a gap in research because there is less focus on specific racial or ethnic, and gender groups. More specifically, a critical gap in prior studies is the overall experiences of African American or Black women in predominantly White academic institutions (PWIs) because their experiences are often grouped with African American or Black men. Stake's approach to a qualitative case study was used to collect and analyze the data to gain more insight into the 10 participants' experiences while attending a PWI. The study's findings presented the students' positive and negative overall experiences, such as benefits and barriers they experienced while attending mostly White academic spaces. Participants spoke of their perceptions regarding changes in their self-esteem, motivation, and confidence as they progressed through their degree program. PWIs and other types of institutions may use the findings from the data presented in this dissertation to improve institutional resources to better support women of color who pursue higher education. [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.]