ABSTRACT
This paper reflects my experiences and concerns about graduate education, in particular, from the perspective of an African-American female. As a consequence of being a so-called “double minority” student, I have been provided with various opportunities as well as numerous migraine headaches.
As a minority in a majority institution, I have many unique needs that are generally not satisfied in such institutions. Understanding the concerns of minority students is definitely a prerequisite to providing an atmosphere for higher learning.
In this paper, I will attempt to express some thoughts–in reflections of my needs and concerns–that I think should be considered by institutions who are trying to provide support systems for minority students. In addition, I will offer some suggestions on how to make minorities feel welcome and part of the university system.
