Mixed Race Studies

College Students’ Multiracial Identity Perceptions and Experiences of Programs and Associations

Oregon State University
2011-04-19
89 pages

Lauren S. Plaza

A Thesis submitted to Oregon State University in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science

This thesis examined the identity transitions that occurred prior to enrollment at a predominantly, White, large, public research university and after completing at least one year of college for students who identify as multiracial. As a secondary purpose, this thesis also examined whether these students sought support through groups that are similar to their ethnic and cultural identities. Using a sample of 10 interviews and a review of the secondary research literature, the principal findings of this thesis are that multiracial students identify differently based on their age, physical appearance, and consciousness about their racialized heritage. Participation in student programs and associations was examined in conjunction with student identity development. In order to encourage success for the multiracial students at a large, public, research institution, the findings from this research suggest that there is a need to expand existing monoracial programs to include broader definitions of racialized categories. There is also a need to develop new programs and associations that are specifically targeted to multiracial students. By making these changes university administrators may be able to support the adjustment and transition to college for students who are often not included in one of the five recognized racial categories.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Chapter 1: Introduction
  • United States Data and National Trends
  • Higher Education and Multiracial Students
  • Research topic and Proposed Thesis
  • Definition of Key Terms
• Chapter 2: Literature Review
  • History of Higher Education and Access for Students of National Data
  • Multiracial Students on College Campuses and Related Theories
  • Assessment of Current Services and Programs
  • Conclusion
• Chapter 3: Methods
  • Research Design Overview
  • Participants and Recruitment Methods
  • Data Analysis
  • Personal Disclosure
  • Summary
• Chapter 4: Results
  • Data Collection
  • Summary of Participants
  • Summary
• Chapter 5: Conclusion
  • General Conclusions
  • Anticipated Findings
  • Unanticipated Findings
  • Implications for Practice
  • Limitations
  • Recommendations for Further Research
  • Concluding Thoughts
• References
• Appendices

Read the entire thesis here.