Mike Stebleton, assistant professor in the Department of Postsecondary Teaching and Learning, is lead author (along with co-authors Krista Soria and Ron Huesman) on an article recently accepted by the Journal of College Student Development. “Recent Immigrant Students at Research Universities: The Relationship between Campus Climate and Sense of Belonging” explores the relationship between campus climate and sense of belonging among two recent immigrant populations attending large research institutions.
Abstract: The number of immigrant college students will likely increase in the future. This study explores the relationship between campus climate and sense of belonging among two recent immigrant populations attending large research institutions. Using the Student Experience in Research Universities (SERU), over 58,000 students were surveyed using a census scan. Results indicated that campus climate is positively predictive of first and second wave immigrants’ sense of belonging on campus. Differences existed between the immigrant groups, suggesting that generalizations should be avoided. Implications for student affairs practitioners were highlighted including the importance of creating networks of belonging and high impact practices.