Date of Graduation

Spring 2008

Degree

Master of Science in Education in Secondary Education

Department

Reading, Foundations, and Technology

Committee Chair

Sarah Nixon

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to investigate how various personal, social, cultural, and educational issues affected the adaptation process of one male Hispanic college student into southwest Missouri. Two research questions guided this study: (a) what were the most critical components of the adaptation process for this Hispanic college student into southwest Missouri? and (b) which educational and behavioral strategies were most effective in achieving the goal of adaptation in southwest Missouri? Data were gathered through a series of in-depth interviews with the participant. Data analysis revealed how a successful adaptation of a Hispanic immigrant is influenced by different components such as the family, language acquisition, positive support systems, and friends. Analysis also revealed how caring teachers played a significant role for students who finish high school and pursue higher education. Reconnection with his Hispanic roots became strong through the understanding of belonging in two cultures, having cultural awareness, and surrounding himself with positive support systems that made him feel unique and accepted for who he is and for what he has successfully achieved, both academically and socially.

Keywords

Hispanic assimilation, multiple processes of adaptation, multicultural identity, English as a second language, Hispanic students in southwest Missouri

Subject Categories

Education

Copyright

© Daisy Barron Collins

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