The Experience of White Students as a Temporary Minority in TRIO-Funded Programs-

Abstract

Although research has been conducted on the experience of White students as temporary minorities in some racial minority settings, little research focuses White students’ experiences as a temporary minority in TRIO-funded programs. In this study, the experience of White students in a TRIO experience were examined through focus groups. Findings suggest that students often had an initial fear of the experience; however, they felt the program was largely positive and beneficial to their growth and development. Participants expressed an overall consensus pertaining to the advantages of being in a diverse student environment. Implications and conclusions for program administrators, student affairs professionals, and other campus leaders are discussed.