Finding Sense of Self: Understanding the Experiences of Black Students at Predominantly White Institutions

Higher education is a unique experience for all students as a place where students grow, nurture their passions, build on their knowledge, and learn more about who they are as individuals. As Black students enroll into higher education, specifically predominantly white higher education institutions, what is their experience? This research captures the experiences of Black students that are educated in predominantly white institutions and hopes to capture a clearer understanding of their racial identity. Does race factor into the experience of these students, and is there a relationship between racial identity and feelings of imposter syndrome? Data collected through ten semi-structured qualitative interviews demonstrated that 80% of respondents were conscious of their racial identity within their institution. In addition, there was clear evidence of feelings of imposter syndrome amongst participants.