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Former foster youth experiences with higher education: Opportunities and challenges

Author

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  • Tobolowsky, Barbara F.
  • Scannapieco, Maria
  • Aguiniga, Donna M.
  • Madden, Elissa E.

Abstract

This mixed method study explores the postsecondary experiences of foster alumni in a large southwest urban area. The primary data sources were a survey and individual interviews with former foster youth who have or were attending a postsecondary institution. However, additional information was gathered through focus groups with foster parents, Child Protective Service (CPS) caseworkers, and community service providers who offer transition services to individuals who have aged out of foster care. The findings focus on three main themes that include: the perceived value of higher education; the financial, personal, and educational challenges getting to and through higher education; and the important role of supports in the alumni's lives. Implications for practice and policy are also included.

Suggested Citation

  • Tobolowsky, Barbara F. & Scannapieco, Maria & Aguiniga, Donna M. & Madden, Elissa E., 2019. "Former foster youth experiences with higher education: Opportunities and challenges," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 104(C), pages 1-1.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:104:y:2019:i:c:14
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2019.05.039
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Hernandez, Liliana & Naccarato, Toni, 2010. "Scholarships and supports available to foster care alumni: A study of 12 programs across the US," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 32(5), pages 758-766, May.
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    3. Randolph, Karen A. & Thompson, Heather, 2017. "A systematic review of interventions to improve post-secondary educational outcomes among foster care alumni," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 79(C), pages 602-611.
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    10. Sensiper, Sylvia & Barragán, Carlos Andrés, 2017. "The Guardian Professions Program: Developing an advanced degree mentoring program for California's foster care alumni," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 82(C), pages 329-336.
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    12. Unrau, Yvonne A. & Dawson, Ann & Hamilton, Ronicka D. & Bennett, Jamie L., 2017. "Perceived value of a campus-based college support program by students who aged out of foster care," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 78(C), pages 64-73.
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    15. Geiger, Jennifer M. & Piel, Megan Hayes & Day, Angelique & Schelbe, Lisa, 2018. "A descriptive analysis of programs serving foster care alumni in higher education: Challenges and opportunities," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 85(C), pages 287-294.
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    1. S. Samarah, Esaa Mohammad & Schelbe, Lisa & Jackson, Lisa A., 2023. "A photovoice study of college students who have experienced foster care, relative care, and/or homelessness," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 151(C).
    2. Salazar, Amy M. & Spiers, Sara S. & Bennett, Maija & Haggerty, Kevin P., 2023. "Fostering Higher Education: Preliminary findings from a small randomized pilot study," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 150(C).
    3. Lindner, Abigail Rose & Hanlon, Ryan, 2024. "Outcomes of youth with foster care experiences based on permanency outcome – Adoption, aging out, long-term foster care, and reunification: A systematic review," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 156(C).
    4. Watt, Toni & Faulkner, Monica, 2020. "The Texas tuition and fee waiver program for youth who have experienced foster care: An assessment of waiver utilization and impact," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 117(C).
    5. Cheatham, Leah P. & Luo, Yan & Hubbard, Shannon & Jackson, M. Sebrena & Hassenbein, Will & Bertram, Jess, 2021. "Cultivating safe and stable spaces: Reflections on a campus-based support program for foster care alumni and youth experiencing homelessness," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 130(C).

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