“No One Taught Me the Steps”: Latinos' Experiences Applying to Graduate School

Abstract

Based on in-depth qualitative interviews, this study examined Latinos' graduate school choice process. Grounded in intersectionality and social and cultural capital theories, this study examined barriers and support structures encountered by Latinos as they navigate through the graduate school application phase. Findings reveal that lack of access to social and cultural capital hampers Latinos' graduate school choice opportunities and outcomes. In contrast, participation in undergraduate research programs and support from institutional agents helps Latinos successfully navigate the graduate school application process.