Community is Key! Sense of Belonging among Black Women Undergraduate and Graduate Students and How They Cope

This study investigates Black women's experiences developing a sense of belonging while enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs at predominantly or historically White institutions. Study participants (n = 22) engaged in semi-structured focus groups or an interview exploring their definitions of and their experiences developing their own sense of belonging, the associations between their sense of belonging and academic progress, and how they cope with their experiences. Findings indicate that Black women experience challenges developing a sense of belonging in spaces where their identities are not adequately represented, ultimately affecting their mental health and well-being. Additionally, participants who identified as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual or Agender and other identities along the gender and sexuality spectrum (LGBTQIA+) endured unique obstacles that impacted their academic success and coping. Participants identified ways they foster a sense of community and establish connections to garner the support and encouragement needed to cope with their experiences.