Abstract

This qualitative study investigates how first-generation undergraduate students of Color at a historically white institution in the U.S. make sense and process the university’s mission, especially in relation to the theoretical frameworks of intersectionality and post-subjectivity. U.S. universities are often structured on market-driven ideologies. They do not necessarily deeply take into account the experiences of their first-generation students of Color to the extent that could be observed in the institution’s mission and goals. In this paper, we interacted with data while thinking with theory, philosophy, and concept as a method. Through these interactions, we gained insights about the lived experiences of first-generation undergraduate students of Color and how they perceive themselves to either be represented or not, within their institution’s mission. Studies like this are needed because an institution’s mission communicates central philosophies to stakeholders, and a clear mission statement is warranted to ensure that first-generation students of Color feel a sense of belongingness and affinity to their campuses. We also offer implications for future research and practice.

摘要

这项定性研究调查了美国一所历史悠久的白人机构的第一代 Color 本科生如何理解和处理大学的使命，特别是与交叉性和后主体性的理论框架相关。美国大学通常以市场驱动的意识形态为基础。他们不一定在机构的使命和目标中可以观察到的程度，深刻地考虑到第一代有色人种学生的经历。在本文中，我们与数据交互，同时以理论、哲学和概念作为一种方法进行思考。通过这些互动，我们深入了解了第一代有色人种本科生的生活经历，以及他们如何看待自己是否被代表，在他们机构的使命范围内。像这样的研究是必要的，因为机构的使命是向利益相关者传达核心理念，并且有必要制定明确的使命宣言，以确保第一代有色人种学生感受到对校园的归属感和亲和力。我们还为未来的研究和实践提供启示。