“Figure it Out”: Self-Efficacy and Community Cultural Wealth Among First-Generation Black Women at Historically Black Colleges and Universities

This qualitative study explored how self-efficacy and community cultural wealth shape the experiences of Black first-generation college women attending a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Data were collected from 10 Black first-generation women using sista circles methodology. Thematic analysis revealed four themes: navigating institutional systems, resilience and fear of failure, help-seeking as growth rather than weakness, and identity and empowerment within the HBCU environment. Findings highlight the importance of self-efficacy, mentorship, community support, and culturally affirming spaces in supporting persistence and success among Black first-generation women.