Description
This phenomenological research study aimed to examine the internal and external
motivational factors that correlate with the success of Black female students attending
community colleges. Black students are among the lowest achieving groups in educational
attainment, so it is necessary to understand what factors encourage students to succeed.
Additionally, black females exceed Black males in college enrollment, persistence, and retention,
so gaining a better understanding of what motivates females to press forward is necessary.
This qualitative study examined the shared stories of six Black female students who have
completed at least one year at a community college. The participants shared their internal and
external motivational experiences and explained how the factors have or have not contributed to
their ability to persist and retain. Five common themes emerged from the interviews: (1) internal
motivators: my drive, (2) external motivators: the people, (3) purpose: my why, (4) perseverance,
and (5) institutional motivators: the College. The study revealed that Black females lean heavily
on their external support systems, possess the internal drive to be successful, and have strong
self-motivation that aids in their ability to succeed. The findings in this study will help to fill
gaps in the literature about the correlation between success and motivation for underrepresented
populations, specifically Black females. It will also provide insight for community college
leaders, highlighting the support students need that will aid in persistence and retention.
Recommendations for applying these themes to promote student success are included.
