Navigating the Pandemic: Enrollment Decisions and Educational Experiences of Latino/x College Men Attending Hispanic Serving Institutions in the South Texas Region

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic was a primary cause for the decline in college enrollment rates for Latino/x college men over the last two years. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore how these students discussed their decisions to attend and enroll college since the onset of the pandemic. Using the Theory of planned behavior (Azjen, 1991), we tried to understand how Latino/x college men, who were first time in enrolled in college, navigated their educational experiences in South Texas Hispanic Serving Institutions. The findings revealed sobering realities that these students faced uncertainty, isolation, mental health concerns, but they also relied on faculty members, staff, and student peer groups to survive the pandemic. We conclude with recommendations that educational leaders, faculty members, and professional staff should consider to develop a college climate and classroom environment which values Latino/x college men and improves their educational outcomes.