Singing in a Foreign Land: An Exploratory Study of Gospel Choir Participation Among African American Undergraduates at a Predominantly White Institution

Abstract

Though relatively little research has focused on the use of spiritual resources, previous research has found that traditional cultural practices and spiritual resources may contribute to persistence, although no studies, to date, focus on the role that gospel choir involvement plays in the success of Black collegians at PWIs. Using data collected via semistructured interviews with 21 African American undergraduate gospel choir members, three themes emerged that relate to the perceived benefits of participating in such groups: establishing a sense of belonging, developing ethnic identity, and nurturing resilience. Findings hold significant implications for future practice, theory, and research on Black student engagement and college student success.