Barriers Influencing the Success of Racial and Ethnic Minority Students in Nursing Programs

Abstract

Racial and ethnic minority students have high attrition rates in nursing school. This article describes a qualitative study that explored 15 minority nursing students’ experiences while enrolled in a predominantly White nursing program. In-depth interviews were conducted and eight themes emerged: loneliness and isolation, differentness, absence of acknowledgment of individuality from teachers, peers’ lack of understanding and knowledge about cultural differences, lack of support from teachers, coping with insensitivity and discrimination, determination to build a better future, and overcoming obstacles. This article provides a voice for minority nursing students whose experiences have not been heard. By understanding these students’ experiences and perspectives, nursing educators may be better able to meet their educational needs and increase graduation rates.