Mexican-American Females and the Bachelor's Degree Challenges and Success Stories

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the challenges encountered by Mexican-American females and how they address those challenges in order to successfully complete a bachelor’s degree. Mexican-American females were selected because of the minimal amount of attention paid to this specific population. Data collected included ten face-to-face interviews and document review. Using the qualitative process of listening to Latina voices, this researcher was able to use the personal experiences at their various universities (Clandinin & Connelly, 2000; Creswell, 2007). Results of the study found that graduates had many challenges during their academic career. Mentoring, family support, and personal determination and persistence were key to their success.