The Role of Students’ Psychosocial Development in Navigating College

As we move towards a more inclusive higher education system, we cannot overlook the fact that disparities still exist. Despite several measures to make higher education more accessible to disadvantaged students, many students continue to face unique challenges that impact their decision-making when it comes to staying enrolled in these programs.

The Role of Students’ Psychosocial Development

Dr. Sherell Wilson's research has shown that HALI learners, or high-achieving, low-income students, benefit greatly from psychosocial development opportunities to help them achieve their post-secondary educational goals. While HALI students are high achievers, they often face financial barriers and lack access to resources that are readily available to their higher-income peers.

To overcome these challenges and succeed in their academic pursuits, HALI learners have been found to prioritize opportunities that promote psychosocial development, such as mentorship, internships, community involvement, and leadership roles. These experiences not only help HALI learners build their resumes but also provide them with the social and emotional skills necessary to navigate the often complex and overwhelming post-secondary environment.

It is important for educators, policymakers, and community leaders to recognize the unique needs of HALI learners and prioritize their access to psychosocial development opportunities. By doing so, we can help these talented and driven students overcome the barriers they face and achieve their full potential.

four key factors

As students navigate the complexities of higher education decision-making, they often lean on four key factors to guide them: conscientiousness, self-esteem, spirituality, and engagement. These traits can be powerful tools for promoting success both academically and emotionally.

Conscientiousness:

One of the top methods that students use to meet their emotional needs is by being conscientious. This involves focusing on improving organizational skills, combating procrastination, and developing self-discipline. When students take this approach, they often feel greater security and motivation in their higher education decision-making.

For example, a conscientious student may set a schedule for studying, prioritize their workload, and break down tasks into manageable steps. By taking these proactive steps, they are able to tackle challenges with confidence and ease, ultimately feeling more in control of their educational journey.

Self-Esteem:

Another critical factor in higher education decision-making is self-esteem. It's undeniable how having someone listen to your thoughts, concerns, and goals is a driving force in raising self-esteem. This is why HALI students often seek out this resource in their decision-making regarding school enrollment, continuing studies, and learning.

Spirituality in Higher Education:

When students leave their familial communities to pursue higher education, they often face challenges in practicing their spiritual beliefs. Universities become their first experience in celebrating and observing traditions away from home. Navigating a diverse campus can present an emotional need for HALI (high-achieving, low-income) students who are trying to find their belonging among peer groups that share their fundamental belief structures.

The availability of spaces that cater to the spiritual needs of students is essential to their psychosocial development. These spaces can take the form of student organizations, faith-based institutions, or simply communal discussion forums. By facilitating an environment that supports student's spiritual growth, institutions can help students feel more secure and comfortable in their academic pursuits.

Engagement with Peers and Instructors:

Access to instructors and peers is critical for HALI students' psychosocial development. As students build confidence in the classroom, they learn the skills necessary to network and succeed in future careers. This growth in emotional intelligence helps students navigate challenging experiences that may arise while pursuing higher education.

Easy engagement with instructors and peers also helps HALI learners build a support system that can help them navigate institutions' challenges. Universities can create an inclusive environment by implementing policies that prioritize

Institutions should not only focus on the academic performance of their students but also address their psychosocial needs

Often, underrepresented students come from backgrounds where they may not have had access to social and emotional support systems. Therefore, colleges should invest resources in designing programs that address these students' needs and help them succeed both academically and personally.

One way to meet these needs is by creating opportunities for students to connect with one another and form a sense of community. Grouping students during freshman year and designing community initiatives that address underserved alumni's needs can help build a supportive network that can help students navigate college life. Encouraging student involvement in extracurricular activities and social clubs can also provide a sense of belonging and help them develop social skills.

In addition, providing resources and support for mental health and wellness is crucial. Often, underrepresented students may face unique challenges such as financial stress, family pressures, or imposter syndrome. Investing in counseling services and mental health resources can help students deal with these challenges and thrive in their academic pursuits.

Finally, institutions should also invest in the professional development training of faculty and campus support staff. Faculty and staff who understand the unique needs of underrepresented students and are equipped with the right tools and strategies can make a difference.

Are you looking to take your team’s professional skills to the next level? Look no further than our Beyond College Access® professional development and capacity-building programs!

Our experienced instructors, who are subject-matter experts, lead practical hands-on training. We offer flexible scheduling options with competitive pricing and a quality commitment.

So why wait? Contact us to learn more about our offerings and how they can help you and your team build your capacity and improve your skills!