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The failure to involve American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities and leaders in their children's education historically has been one of the most significant barriers to their academic success. AI/AN students nation-wide continue to experience disparities in access to education which has resulted in higher high school dropout rates and less than 1% college enrollment (Aud, Fox, & KewalRamani, 2010). This study was designed to investigate the perceptions of AI/AN seniors eligible for May 2019 graduation at a Midwestern Tribal College (MTC) about pre-college and college factors that contributed to or inhibited academic success in college. Six women and four men participated in the study. Nine students were members of American Indian tribes and one student was an Alaska Native. Six major themes were identified from the analysis of the data: high school factors that contributed to college success, high school factors that inhibited college success, factors that inhibit college enrollment for AI/AN students, factors that promote college enrollment for AI/AN students, factors that inhibited academic success during college, and factors that promoted academic success during college. Enrollment in advanced courses in high school (e.g. Advanced Placement and dual enrollment in college courses) and support from high school teachers, counselors, and family contributed to academic success in college. Limited high school offerings, lack of preparation for the ACT or SAT, lack of knowledge about college costs and scholarship opportunities, and support systems (e.g., family and friends) were cited as high school factors that inhibited academic success while in college. Factors that inhibit AI/AN student matriculation into college included family and friends questioning college attendance, limited guidance from high school personnel, and finances. Social media from higher education institutions, guidance from family and friends who had attended college, and campus visits were factors that promoted college attendance. Three factors, academic issues, financial concerns, and stress were described as inhibitors to academic success during college. Higher education faculty, staff, peers, and friends were mentioned as factors that promoted academic success throughout college. Additional research and actions focusing on the success and struggles of AI/AN students as they attempt college enrollment, persistence, and ultimately graduation are needed to enhance opportunities for academic success for these students. |
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