Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to describe the factors associated with resilience theory, college retention theory, and the theory of mattering that contribute to the successful completion of a college certificate or degree program, as perceived by directors and college counselors working with emancipated foster youth. A secondary purpose was to describe strategies and practices utilized to support the successful retention of emancipated foster youth during the first year of their college certificate or degree program, as perceived by directors and college counselors working with emancipated foster youth. Methodology. This was a descriptive case study. The findings were derived from interviews conducted at 10 model community colleges in Southern California. The semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 directors and community college counselors who assisted emancipated foster youth. Findings. Eight issues relevant to retaining emancipated foster youth during their first year on a community college campus were identified: (a) Establishing a rapport with students on the first day is very important, (b) collaborating with faculty and staff from other departments on campus is effective, (c) connecting students with extra resources is a very important component, (d) academic and personal counseling are very effective tools, (e) many directors serve dual roles as directors and counselors for the colleges for which they work, (f) assisting former foster youth with applying for financial aid is critical for retaining them in college, (g) establishing relationships with members of the local community to obtain extra resources for the former foster youth is a critical component, and (h) it is important that legislators and college administrators add funding to support programming efforts for emancipated foster youth. Conclusions. The researcher captured the true essence of the commitment that the faculty members have to this student population. Also, the programs studied have effective practices for retaining emancipated foster youth. Recommendations. The information in this case study was based on the findings and implications from the views of 10 directors and counselors who served emancipated foster youth. This study should be replicated with a larger sample of directors/counselors. Furthermore, the data collected for this study represent exclusively community colleges located in Southern California.