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Abstract
This narrative research study explored the lived experiences of first-generation Black men who joined a Black Greek letter organization (BGLO) as an undergraduate student and graduated from a predominately White institution (PWI). In particular, this study focused on their lived experiences with finding a sense of belonging; and how their membership in a BGLO (Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, and Iota Phi Theta) provided advantages or disadvantages in finding their sense of belonging. Focusing attention on participants who have successfully graduated offered detailed context on their experiences attending a PWI and resources in which their BGLO provided help to navigate the campus culture and matriculate towards graduation.
Participants were recruited by using a convenience sampling approach within professional, social, alumni affinity groups. Data were collected from ten participants and strategically analyzed in an analytical coding and thematic process. Four themes emerged from the data (“Navigating Unfamiliar Territory”: Self-Independence Before Joining, “A Whole Different World”: Life In College After Membership, “They Were Always There For Me”: Experiences Among Other Black Men, and Professionally Trained Staff for NPHC Greek Organizations). Three themes were explored in greater context within the findings, while the fourth theme provided important information for practical application recommendations.
Overall, the ten participants who self-identified as a first-generation college student, a Black man, a member of a BGLO, and a graduate of a PWI between 2015-2020 shared detailed accounts of their lived experiences. The participants shared how the PWI culture during their first year was daunting, isolating, and ultimately did not provide any means to find a sense of belonging to persist towards graduation. The presence of BGLOs from a programmatic lens, joint ventures to collaborate for community service projects, and ultimately the unity of friendship and brotherhood intrigued and propelled these first-generation Black men to seek membership in their BGLO. Recommendations for future implications and research detail how higher education and student affairs administrators can work in tandem with first-generation Black men to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment at predominately White institutions.
Participants were recruited by using a convenience sampling approach within professional, social, alumni affinity groups. Data were collected from ten participants and strategically analyzed in an analytical coding and thematic process. Four themes emerged from the data (“Navigating Unfamiliar Territory”: Self-Independence Before Joining, “A Whole Different World”: Life In College After Membership, “They Were Always There For Me”: Experiences Among Other Black Men, and Professionally Trained Staff for NPHC Greek Organizations). Three themes were explored in greater context within the findings, while the fourth theme provided important information for practical application recommendations.
Overall, the ten participants who self-identified as a first-generation college student, a Black man, a member of a BGLO, and a graduate of a PWI between 2015-2020 shared detailed accounts of their lived experiences. The participants shared how the PWI culture during their first year was daunting, isolating, and ultimately did not provide any means to find a sense of belonging to persist towards graduation. The presence of BGLOs from a programmatic lens, joint ventures to collaborate for community service projects, and ultimately the unity of friendship and brotherhood intrigued and propelled these first-generation Black men to seek membership in their BGLO. Recommendations for future implications and research detail how higher education and student affairs administrators can work in tandem with first-generation Black men to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment at predominately White institutions.