How do Students Involved with a Campus Support Program for Students with a History of Foster Care, Relative Care, or...

Area of Science:

• Higher Education Research
• Student Support Services
• Social Work in Education

Background:

• Postsecondary education offers opportunities for students from marginalized backgrounds, including those with foster care or homelessness experience.
• Campus Support Programs (CSPs) are crucial in providing a diverse range of services to aid these students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of CSPs on students with foster care, relative care, or homelessness experience.
• To understand the post-graduation outcomes and challenges faced by these students.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study surveyed 56 students involved in CSPs.
• Data collection occurred at graduation, 6 months post-graduation, and one year post-graduation.

Main Results:

• Over two-thirds of graduates felt prepared for post-graduation life, with high confidence in securing employment.
• 85% of graduates were employed within six months, and 45% enrolled in graduate school, with similar outcomes a year later.
• Qualitative data revealed key themes in finances, work, relationships, and resilience.

Conclusions:

• Higher education institutions and CSPs must provide robust support for students with foster care, relative care, or homelessness backgrounds.
• Ensuring adequate financial resources, employment opportunities, and ongoing support is vital for post-graduation success.