“I’m here, I can help”: Supporting Southeast Asian American Community College Students

Abstract

<p>This study examined the experiences of Asian American students with one community college’s student services: Writing Center, Financial Aid Center, and Asian American Student Center (AASC). Data included survey responses, focus group interviews, and individual student interviews. Chi square tests were conducted to see if there were significant differences in participants’ responses based on ethnicity (Cambodian/Khmer vs. other), gender, and age (traditionally vs. non-traditionally aged). Focus group and individual interview data were analyzed thematically. Results showed that about half of the students had accessed the Writing Center and the AASC, while over 85% accessed the Financial Aid Center. There were no differences in students’ accessing any of the three services based on ethnicity. Males were more likely than females to access the Writing Center, while traditionally-aged students were more likely to frequent the AASC compared to non-traditionally aged (older) students. Analysis revealed that students struggled to fully utilize the services because of cultural differences and language competence. These challenges were mediated by the help students received from AASC staff, who acted as cultural brokers and caring agents. The study points to the need to more closely monitor and tailor services for subgroups of underserved students and to hire culturally competent staff to deliver the services.<br></p>