women of color in higher education
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—Ayana D., fourth-year student, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia

College is a place for students to make meaning. For students of color (SOC), however, this meaning-making is interconnected with a changing racial climate and perpetual disparities.  

According to a 2019 status report on race and ethnicity in higher education by the American Council on Education (ACE), more and more people of color are pursuing higher education. However, college faculty remain predominantly white. Another ACE report specifically notes that women of color (WOC) account for less than 10 percent of four-year degree holders in higher education. 

Why does this matter?

Studies show SOC attending predominantly white institutions feel:

  • Othered
  • Invalidated
  • Like they do not belong 

SOC need to see themselves represented in both the student body and faculty to truly feel that their work means something. So how can SOC thrive in such a racially complicated climate? Try these three tips for SOC navigating predominantly white institutions.

1. Seek out counterspaces

A counterspace is a small community within a larger community that is specifically for marginalized people (e.g., the women’s center). Counterspaces can help marginalized people challenge systems of oppression such as racism and sexism. These settings can also help students develop positive images of themselves.

2. Take up space

Once you’ve found a counterspace, the next step is for you to take up space. When you take up space, you assert your human right to be heard. Practice speaking up for yourself in the safety of your counterspace first. Then, with the support of your community, venture out and take up dominant spaces, together. 

3. Unpack and release

Asserting your voice in spaces where you feel othered may arouse uncomfortable feelings. Seek support. Therapy can be a great resource to help you unpack and release your emotions. However, do not limit yourself to traditional mental health services. Meditation and dance, for example, are also great options for therapeutic support.


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