The Role Of Student Organizations In The Retention Of Latina/o College Students

Although Latinos will constitute 24% of the nation’s population by the year 2050, only about 12% of Latinos achieve a Bachelor’s degree today, which is the lowest rate of all ethnic groups (US Census, 2006). This underrepresentation of Latinos in higher education is of particular concern for the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) which has the highest dropout rates of Latino students in comparison to the overall UC average. This presentation analyzes the role of student organizations serving underrepresented students as they prepare for the transition from college to graduate school.

This study examines the factors that lead Latina/o UCSC undergraduate students to consider dropping out of college and the factors that help them remain in school. About 180 students were surveyed on the various factors that (1) caused them to seriously consider dropping out and (2) the factors that helped them remain in college. Results are predicted to reveal that the main factors that contribute students to consider dropping out include family obligations, financial need, and an unwelcoming campus climate. While it is expected that participants will report receiving emotional support from parents and friends, it is predicted that it is the technical support provided by social organizations and academic mentorship that will have the strongest influence in their retention and academic success. This research is essential in identifying key factors that influence UCSC student’s decision to remain or drop out of college as well as providing possible solutions to increase the number of Latinos in higher education.