Abstract
Previous research has found that the racial climate at primarily White institutions (PWIs) have negative effects on students of color. This study focuses on students of color’s perceived experiences and interactions they have had in both k-12 education and in their PWI due to their race. The participants, a Black bi-cultural student, an international Chinese student, who are both enrolled in First year Composition courses at a four year California State university were interviewed. The researcher, a Black graduate student, also participates in the study. Findings suggest that microaggressions and the feelings of isolation at PWIs negatively effect students of color. In particular, they influence their willingness and comfort level in writing, group work, and engagement in class and/or small group discussions with White teachers and peers.