Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological research study assesses the obstacles faced by foster youth and the support available to them while attending the Ventura County Community College District. As it currently stands, about four and a half percent of foster youth in the United States go on to earn a college degree. Very little research has been done to explore the effectiveness and outcomes of the support offered to foster youth. Data for this research study was collected using the General Self-efficacy scale and structured interviews. Each of the ten participants was given a demographics survey and a Self-Efficacy scale survey and was interviewed using the same ten interview questions. The results show that several effective supports are in place to assist current and former foster youth attending the Ventura County Community College District. The results also show that not all supports are available to each current or former foster youth and that program length and availability vary. Through this research study, the researcher found that transportation remained a notable barrier to foster youth attending VCCCD, in addition to a lack of mentorship.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Community college students—Services for—California—Ventura County; Foster children—Education, Higher—California—Ventura County

Date of Award

2025

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Education

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Dawn Hendricks

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