Abstract
To bolster opportunities for foster youth in California, many colleges and universities have created initiatives, such as the Guardian Scholars Program (GSP), which provide academic, financial, mental health, and social supports to ensure foster youth students pursue higher education and earn a college degree. This report evaluates the impact of participation in GSP on former foster youth and spotlights experiences of a somewhat hidden population at Sacramento State University. Data was gathered through seven interviews and a focus group. Findings indicate that GSP provides participants (1) a valuable sense of belonging, (2) critical supportive services to students, and (3) impactful encouragement from program staff that helps them persevere toward earning their degree. Notably, participants described how they desire and appreciate recognition for their having overcome significant challenges, but at the same time do not wish to be coddled by professors. Actionable insights and recommendations from GSP participants are addressed to increase program efficacy for the GSP at Sacramento State and campus support programs at large.