College Preparation and Aspirations Among African American Students

Preparing College Aspirations Among African American High School Students Anthony Paul Williams, EdD University of Pittsburgh, 2020 There is an education gap that exists in our nation. Black students are more likely to encounter obstacles and barriers that are associated with college attainment when compared to their White peers. This study sought to understand factors that hinder college readiness and success among Black students who graduated from The Neighborhood Academy (TNA). A total of 16 TNA graduates were interviewed in order to collect data regarding their college preparation and experience. The participants graduated from TNA within 2014-2018. In addition to the interview, a survey was distributed to all TNA graduates to better understand multiple facets of college readiness and experiences of all TNA graduates. Data was gathered which will be beneficial in addressing the challenges that Black students encounter in their pursuit of a higher education. Throughout this study I learned the benefit of instilling college aspirations at an earlier age to best prepare underserved students and their families to acquire and afford a higher education. Intentional measures will equip students and their families to achieve this goal. I also examined how interpersonal relationships between school staff and underserved students can be an asset in supporting their college preparation and experience. My investigation found that ongoing communication by trusted school officials was beneficial for TNA graduates while attending college. The findings of this study will be used to implement new programs and relationships at TNA to increase student success in college and beyond. Study findings have implications for TNA and may be of use to similar educational systems.