College Persistence among Single Mothers after Welfare Reform: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

This article examines barriers to college persistence for low-income, single mothers at a public university in the Northeast, and the strategies the women used in their efforts to overcome the barriers. Data for the study were drawn from in-depth interviews with 14 current and former university students. The women's strategies and resources for persistence included faith in the benefits of a college education, building of social networks among students, faculty relationships, university services such as child care and financial aid, strategic compliance with TANF requirements, choice of more flexible academic programs, and support from family and community. The article concludes with the recommendations for policies to enhance single parents' college persistence.