Recent studies have shown a decline in college enrollment for Mexican Americans in 2021, possibly driven by the confliction between cultural factors and the college enrollment experience. This study seeks to explore potential barriers in the college admissions process of Mexican Americans (Chicanos) in Hampton Roads, Virginia. The proposed research aims to identify barriers contributing to low representation of Mexican descendent individuals in higher education. Using a quantitative approach, individuals of Mexican descent, aged 18 to 25, will be purposefully sampled to complete a 45-question survey. This study can contribute to understanding of barriers faced by Mexican Americans in enrollment and graduation in higher education. Understanding barriers will aid policy makers and program directors to meet the needs of Mexican Americans and increase higher education graduation rates. Additionally, the results of this work can provide a framework that can be applied to future research studies involving racialized populations across the United States.
