Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

Summer 7-13-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

July 2026

Department

Educational Leadership and Research Methodology

College Granting Degree

College of Education

Department Granting Degree

Educational Leadership and Research Methodology

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Cristobal Salinas

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to further understand the experiences of specially admitted student-athletes regarding their sense of belonging. In addition, this study aims to add to the existing literature regarding support services for student-athletes. The three research questions for this study were: 1. How do specially admitted student-athletes at Division I Universities make meaning of their admissions experiences? 2. What contributes to developing a sense of belonging of specially admitted student-athletes at Division I universities? 3. How do specially admitted student-athletes make meaning of their academic experiences at their university? A qualitative, descriptive phenomenological research approach was used to answer the research questions. This study found that specially admitted student-athletes at Division I universities perceived their admissions experiences as an athletic victory, and that their sense of belonging was significantly influenced by their athletic experiences and the relationships they had built on campus. Additionally, this study found that specially admitted student-athletes learn balance and utilize the support available to them to succeed academically. These findings provided implications for practice, policy, and future research. This study contributed to the debate over special admissions policies for student-athletes by offering the perspective of the specially admitted student-athletes. The findings of this study demonstrate that the experiences of specially admitted student-athletes at Division I universities are highly influenced by their athletic trajectories and identities, and that these students can have fruitful academic experiences when provided with the appropriate support.

Download

Share

COinS