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Abstract
The presence of Black student-athletes among colleges and universities within the United States is on the rise (Simiyu, 2012). Black men students are recruited for their athletic ability, and a large number struggle with transitioning this capability into the classroom (Bimper, Harrison, & Clark, 2012). Although increased efforts have been centered around student-athlete academic improvement, there has continued to be a lack of support when it comes to Black men student-athletes and their academic potential (Bimper et al., 2012). Academic achievement can be impacted by a student’s sense of belonging, which is critical for college success (Strayhorn, 2019). Strayhorn (2012) expressed how sense of belonging has continued to be a goal or ending desire for Black men students, which is negatively impacted when enrolled at a Predominately White Institution (PWI). The purpose of this study was to understand and explore the challenges of Black men student-athletes’ sense of belonging at Georgia Tech (a PWI). This study examined the challenges that could potentially decrease Black men student-athletes’ sense of belonging on Georgia Tech’s campus and answered what factors influenced a decreased sense of belonging for this population. The data for this project was collected through quantitative methodology via an online questionnaire, utilizing Hoffman et al.’s (2002-2003) revised Sense of Belonging Scale (SBS). This study has given scholar practitioners a brief look into the support needed to create a strong culture of belonging to the institution, through faculty and peer support as well as the environment of the classroom.