Roots of Cultural Resilience: A Case Study on the Resilience of Latinx Medical Students

Abstract

ABSTRACT Contrary to the deficit, leaky pipe perspective, this study applied an asset-based framework that argues resilience is a cultural asset that motivates and contributes to success. The purpose of this study was to examine how Latinx students applied resilience contexts toward navigating the medical school pipeline. A qualitative, case study design was utilized to explore the medical school pipeline experiences of five Latinx medical students, attending one of the most diverse medical schools in the nation. Two data collection techniques were used including document analysis of medical school personal statements and participant interviews. Data were unitized, coded and analyzed using content analysis and constant comparative method. Findings suggest Latinx medical students demonstrate resilience prior to matriculation by being resourceful and not giving up despite citizenship barriers. Additionally, the Home, Community & College contexts of the Latina/o Resilience Model represented the role of resilience in the success of the participant’s journeys into medical school. Recommendations for practice are offered with the intention of providing higher education leaders ideas for increasing racial and ethnic representation within future cohorts of medical school students.