Description
This study investigated the experiences of young men of color (YMOC) who enrolled and participated in community college Promise programs for a minimum of 1 year. This phenomenological study explored how these young men managed their opportunities to persist through community college and how they visualized and worked toward what was necessary for them to graduate. The results of the study provide insight for community college leadership who provide academic and social support for YMOC who participate in Promise programs. This qualitative study collected data through focus group interviews with 43 YMOC, ages 18-24, who were enrolled in community college Promise programs located in a Southwestern or Midwestern state. Data analysis revealed two main themes: Managing the College Experience and Benefits of the Promise. The data indicated when students felt assured about their environments, they sought opportunities to build relationships with coaches and peers. They learned to navigate academic experiences and access critical resources, including financial support, which resulted in their success. Taking advantage of what the Promise programs offered helped the young men to strengthen their commitments toward their goals, increase their confidence in attaining their goals, and develop self-reliance and self-efficacy in the process. The findings of this study led to recommendations for community college faculty, staff, and administrators who are involved in or considering initiating Promise programs. Recommendations include creating more peer-to-peer and coach-to-student relationships and deploying wrap-assist services that respond to actual student needs, making the process and the intervention cost effective and student-centric.
