Authentically Me: Examining Expectations That Are Placed Upon Black Women in College. (April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Winkle-Wagner, Rachelle; Kelly, Bridget Turner; Luedke, Courtney L.; Reavis, Tangela Blakely
• Is Part Of: American educational research journal. Volume 56:Number 2(2019)
• Page Start: 407
• Page End: 443
• Publication Date: 2019-04
• Subjects: African American women -- identity -- stereotypes -- intersectionality; Education -- United States -- Periodicals; Education -- Research -- United States -- Periodicals; 370.97305
• DOI: 10.3102/0002831218798326
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0002-8312

Abstract

Through analyzing critical life stories with Black alumnae from predominantly White institutions, this article offers a narrative, in-depth approach to explore the ways in which alumnae managed and resisted expectations and stereotypes that were placed upon them by peers, faculty, and staff during college. Findings suggested that participants grappled with assumptions of who they should be as Black college women. As they resisted stereotypes and expectations, they crafted unique pathways toward asserting their authentic selves. The findings emphasize heterogeneity among Black women and the need for varied support structures in educational institutions.