Now You SEA Us: A Look at APIDA College Mentorship Programs in Shaping Sense of Belonging for Southeast Asian Students

Abstract

With a limited amount of research dedicated to Southeast Asian college students in higher education institutions, the purpose of this study is to explore how Asian Pacific Islander Desi American mentorship programs foster a sense of belonging among Southeast Asian college students. Through a semi-structured interview design, 15 participants shared their stories and experiences in participating in the APIDA mentorship program. Their stories illustrate the impact of APIDA mentorship programs, and the findings highlight how the four components of sense of belonging: identification with the university, social match, social acceptance, and cultural capital in higher education, were met. Participants shared how they were able to further connect with their cultural identity, learn more about the resources at their institution, and find their place on campus.