Barriers That Prevent Adult Latino Students from Attaining a College Degree

Barriers That Prevent Adult Latino Students from Attaining a College Degree by Laly J. Rodriguez MS, Walden University, 2013 MS, Walden University, 2005 BSW, Methodist College, 2000 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Education Walden University October 2019 Abstract The U.S. Latino community is underrepresented among those with college degrees, and high college dropout rates among Latinos have contributed to that underrepresentation. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore why Latinos are at increased risk for dropping out of college compared to their White counterparts. Tinto’s theory of student integration and the geometric model of student persistence and achievement were used to guide the study. Data were collected from 12 Latino students at risk for droppingThe U.S. Latino community is underrepresented among those with college degrees, and high college dropout rates among Latinos have contributed to that underrepresentation. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore why Latinos are at increased risk for dropping out of college compared to their White counterparts. Tinto’s theory of student integration and the geometric model of student persistence and achievement were used to guide the study. Data were collected from 12 Latino students at risk for dropping out at a college in the northeastern United States who were enrolled in a degree program but were considering dropping out before completion. through semi-structured individual interviews and from documents that addressed retention efforts to increase students’ persistence and degree completion at the study site. Analyses included manual coding, open coding, and computer-assisted coding with NVivo 11. Findings indicated several barriers to college completion: (a) financial difficulties, (b) familial responsibilities and financial support, and (c) lack of dropout prevention programs targeting Latino students. Results and recommendations were compiled as a white paper to distribute to school administrators and stakeholders. Findings may be used by administrators and stakeholders to increase Latino students’ retention and graduation rates. The project recommendation was to implement a Latino support program in the northeastern U.S. colleges led by Latino mentors who were college graduates. The possible implications of this support program for Latino students are increased retention rates and opportunities to expand their social network with students going through similar struggles. Barriers That Prevent Adult Latino Students from Attaining a College Degree by Laly J. Rodriguez MS, Walden University, 2013 MS, Walden University, 2005 BSW, Methodist College, 2000 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Education Walden University August 2019 Dedication I dedicate this study to God and my special angels. A special feeling of gratefulness to my awesome husband, Alexander, and my wonderful daughter, Krizzia. Thanks for those words of reinforcement and push for tenacity ringing in my ears, and for never leaving my side during this long journey. I also dedicate this study to my parents, sisters, nieces, and special friends who have supported me throughout the process. I will always appreciate all they have done and for being there for me throughout the entire doctoral program. All of you have been my best cheerleaders. Acknowledgments I am indebted to all of those with whom I have had the pleasure to work during this qualitative study. Each of the members of my dissertation committee have provided me with comprehensive personal and professional direction and educated me a great deal about qualitative research studies. I would especially like to thank Dr. Lopez-Avila, the chair of my committee, and Dr. Castro and Dr. Ellis, my second members. As my instructors and mentors, they have supported and have taught me more than I could ever give them credit for here.