Factors Influencing American Indian Students’ Decision to Attend Tribal Colleges

Abstract

The current enrollment numbers of American Indian students in the Wisconsin college system are exceptionally low compared to Caucasian students, leaving this population to be the most underrepresented in Wisconsin colleges among all minority groups. Along with low college enrollment this population suffers from some of the highest rates of poverty, alcoholism, and suicide in the country. Research indicates there are benefits of attending a tribal college that incorporates Native American Indian culture and may further impact educational outcomes in a significant way. Culturally-related factors play a significant role in the college selection process, creating implications for school counselors who work with American Indian students in the college and career planning process.