Abstract
The college experience is defined by whose lens is filtering the perspective. The developmental processes of both the Asian/Pacific Islander American identity and lesbian and gay identity provide an understanding of the unique needs of each identity. However, examining the intersectionality of these identities would offer a more accurate account of what this population would experience. Determining what unique needs this student population has will allow institutions of higher education to provide better support services. Social identities influence one’s sense of campus climate and one’s perception of their sense of belonging, ultimately defining a positive versus a negative college experience. The purpose of the study was to analyze the experiences of Asian/Pacific Islander American students who identify as lesbian or gay to determine factors that may affect this population’s collegiate career at a four-year institution of higher education in a metropolis area in Northern California. The researcher recruited five individuals through random purposeful sampling technique. The data were gathered for the participants’ responses to semi-structured interview questions. The questions revolved around themes identified from existing literature of campus climate, campus resources, campus/civic involvement, peer interactions, classroom climate, faculty interactions, transition to campus, identity development, and satisfaction and sense of belonging. The researcher analyzed the interviews to determine common themes. Three prominent themes emerged about social identity challenges, connection to campus, and faculty influence. Participants described challenges they faced in regard to their Asian/Pacific Islander American and/or lesbian or gay identity. Four of the five participants revealed their involvement with at least one student organization and the significant impact their organization had on their sense of belonging. One of the most prevalent themes found was the weight of influence faculty members had on a student’s learning, comfort level, inspiration as a role model, and overall college experience.