Smell, Adrianna

English

University of Northern Colorado

Ursidae: The Undergraduate Research Journal at the Universityof Northern ColoradoVolume 5Number 1 2015 Research Excellence Awards Winnersand FinalistsArticle 19January 2015McNair Scholars: Overcoming the Obstacles ofUnderrepresented StudentsAdrianna SmellFollow this and additional works at: http://digscholarship.unco.edu/urjPart of the Social and Behavioral Sciences CommonsThis Article is brought to you for free and open access by Scholarship & Creative Works @ Digital UNC. It has been accepted for inclusion in Ursidae:The Undergraduate Research Journal at the University of Northern Colorado by an authorized editor of Scholarship & Creative Works @ Digital UNC.For more information, please contact Jane.Monson@unco.edu.Recommended CitationSmell, Adrianna (2015) "McNair Scholars: Overcoming the Obstacles of Underrepresented Students," Ursidae: The UndergraduateResearch Journal at the University of Northern Colorado: Vol. 5 : No. 1 , Article 19.Available at: http://digscholarship.unco.edu/urj/vol5/iss1/19Smell      19 McNair Scholars: Overcoming the Obstacles of Underrepresented Students Presenter: Adrianna Smell Faculty Mentor: Joshua Packard  Abstract: Previous research identifies agents of socialization that reinforce stereotypes about underrepresented populations’ abilities and how these biases create obstacles for underrepresented students in academia, but lacks in understanding how underrepresented students combat biases in higher education. Using qualitative methodology, this study identifies obstacles faced by students underrepresented in academia (i.e., first-generation, low income, race/ethnic and gender minorities) participating in a high impact program, and how they maintain self-efficacy while combating obstacles. Studying students engaged in a high impact program adds a new dimension to understanding the relationship between underserved populations in academia, self-efficacy and student success. Preliminary findings based on interviews with 9 students suggest financial stability, lack of inclusion and awareness of resources are the biggest obstacles for students. While universities are implementing first year seminar courses for underrepresented students, this population needs more attention from administration and faculty; they are unaware of the opportunities that campuses have to offer.  1Smell: McNair Scholars: Overcoming the Obstacles of Underrepresented StudentsPublished by Scholarship & Creative Works @ Digital UNC, 2015

McNair Scholars: Overcoming the Obstacles of Underrepresented Students

https://digscholarship.unco.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1117&amp;context=urj

McNair Scholars: Overcoming the Obstacles of Underrepresented Students

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