Eat, Sleep, Breathe, Study: Understanding What It Means to Belong at a University From the Student Perspective

Authors

  • Christopher D. Slaten Purdue University
  • Michael S. Yough Purdue University
  • Daniel A. Shemwell Purdue University
  • Dominick A. Scalise Avila University
  • Zachary M. Elison Purdue University
  • Hayley A. Hughes Purdue University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/ehe.2014.117

Abstract

The present study utilized consensual qualitative research (Hill 2012) to investigate undergraduate students’ sense of belongingness to their university. The analysis revealed four broad domains: (1) valued group involvement, (2) meaningful personal relationships, (3) environmental factors, and (4) intrapersonal factors. Within these domains, six general categories and eight typical categories emerged. The results highlight the importance for students to have opportunities to meaningfully connect with other peers/faculty, the availability of a myriad of campus organizations and groups, and universities to foster an environment of diversity. Implications for higher education personnel as well as directions for future research are discussed.

Author Biographies

Christopher D. Slaten, Purdue University

Dr. Slaten is an assistant professor in counseling and development in the College of Education at Purdue University

Michael S. Yough, Purdue University

Dr. Yough is an assistant professor in Educational Psychology in the College of Education at Purdue University

Daniel A. Shemwell, Purdue University

Daniel is a graduate student in the Counseling Psychology doctoral program at Purdue University in the College of Education.

Dominick A. Scalise, Avila University

Dr. Scalise is an assistant professor in the counseling program at Avila University

Zachary M. Elison, Purdue University

Zachary is a graduate student in the Counseling Psychology doctoral program at Purdue University in the College of Education.

Hayley A. Hughes, Purdue University

Hayley is a graduate student in the Counseling Psychology doctoral program at Purdue University in the College of Education.

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Published

2014-12-11

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 1 (2014)

Section

Articles

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