Date of Award

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Hernandez, Sarah

Area of Concentration

Sociology with Psychology Secondary Field

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore how the use and availability of resources along with the perceptions of attainable opportunities for life after high school affect the decision-making process among Mexican American high school students. This project utilized both a quantitative and qualitative approach to gather information on participants' high school experiences and choices as they advanced into their journeys after high school. Participants were given a self-efficacy scale and took part in semi-structured interviews that ranged from 37 to 80 minutes. The thematic analysis highlights nine themes that reveal aspects of participants' journeys since high school while reflecting on their experiences since graduating. Participants’ stories revealed forms of resources Mexican American high school students use to meet their college and career related goals which can include parental, school, and community support. Findings show that the use of resources and the availability of them are separate and that both the use and availability of resources impact the decision-making process when choosing a pathway for life after high school. The perceptions participants had as high school students of what was possible for life after graduating high school were influenced by influential figures such as family and mentors as well as using other forms of resources. These initial perceived opportunities usually had limited awareness of the ways people can diverge from traditionally recognized post-high school pathways. The research presented shows the complexity of factors involved that shape the decision-making process of Mexican American high school students. Findings indicate high school students’ need to authentically explore their interests to better prepare for their transitions out of high school.

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