Racial minorities face gaps in achievement, social connectedness and equitable standards in Predominantly White Institutions (PWI) (Rice, 2020; DePieto, 2023). A PWI is a facility where more than 50% of the population is White (Lomotely, 2010). Racial minorities attending PWIs report a decreased sense of belonging and desire to thrive in the community because of racially construed backlash. The purpose of this research is to identify experiences of the racial minority and further evaluate the link between belonging and connection to their White peers. This mixed-methods study design utilizes both focus groups and surveys. Both methods measure feelings of belonging, identity shifts, the need to code-switch, and alienation. The results of the survey consolidate emic perspectives of racial minorities in order to understand belonging and cultural connection within PWIs. Results shown demonstrate adverse experiences that are shaped by racist beliefs, marginalization and social disillusionment among White peers. Participants recalled experiences of increased alienation, identity confusion and struggle with the general ability to fit in with those around them. Its reasoning involves disconnection from their peers because of cultural displacement, direct/indirect racial remarks (i.e., microaggressions), and stigma. In trying to cope with such distress or ‘culture shock’ students harped on their need to conform to white normalcy and play into the role of elevated expectations put onto them by not only students but faculty.
Summer James is graduating with a double major in Psychology and Public Health with a minor in Health Advocacy and Humanitarian Systems. As a part of the College Honors Program, she will earn Program Honors in Public Health as well. Her research focuses on Belonging in Students of Color who have attended Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). She is president of InterVarisity Christian Fellowship and an AmeriCorps alumna.