| The purpose of this qualitative research study is to examine how Filipino American family, ethnic identity, and campus climate, combined with the struggles typically associated with the sophomore year of college, affect Filipino American second-year students' perception of their academic and social challenges at one, public research intensive university. Widely termed as the 'sophomore slump', second-year students typically find themselves anxious, depressed, and confused. Internal and external pressures on major and career selection, financial independence, interpersonal relationships, and academic success combine to cause sophomores to disengage from their studies, be dissatisfied with their college experience, transfer to other institutions, and/or completely withdraw from school. For Filipino American students, these issues are intensified due to additional cultural barriers, family obligations, and parental expectations. As Filipino Americans comprise the second largest Asian ethnic group in the United States with the majority being immigrants or children of immigrants, the experiences of this population in higher education becomes an increasing concern. In this study, there were nine Filipino American college student participants. Interviews were conducted with eight participants followed by a focus group which included an additional student. Findings indicate that family, ethnic identity, and campus climate play a significant role in the experiences of Filipino American students during their second year of college. In addition, the study illustrates that these three influences intersect with one another. Some factors play a more prominent role for particular students in this study than for others. Filipino American students are heterogeneous though they share some commonalities. Implications for research and student affairs practitioners are provided. |
