Theses and Dissertations

Advisor

King, Stephanie

Committee Member

Coats, Linda

Committee Member

White, Carol

Committee Member

Oswalt, Katie

Date of Degree

5-15-2026

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Dissertation - Open Access

Major

Community College Leadership

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Education

Department

Department of Industrial Technology, Instructional Design, and Community College Leadership

Abstract

Community colleges play a vital role in expanding access to higher education by offering affordable and flexible opportunities for diverse learners, including many who face academic and socioeconomic challenges. This qualitative phenomenological study examined the factors that influence high school seniors' decisions to attend a particular college. Guided by Hossler and Gallagher's (1987) three-stage college choice model of predisposition, search, and choice, the research explored how students gather information; the influence of family, peers, and school personnel; and the importance of college characteristics such as cost, location, and campus environment. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten high school seniors, conducted via Microsoft Teams, and analyzed using coding and thematic analysis (Creswell, 2007). Findings revealed that family involvement, particularly parental guidance, encouragement, and financial support, was the most significant influence throughout the decision-making process. Teachers and school counselors also played crucial roles by assisting with applications, financial aid, and college visits. Participants emphasized that campus visits and direct interactions with college environments were essential in shaping their perceptions and ultimate choices. The results highlight the importance of family and institutional support in shaping students' postsecondary pathways. Colleges seeking to address enrollment challenges should strengthen outreach to families, improve communication regarding affordability and career opportunities, and provide engaging campus experiences that help prospective students envision themselves in the college setting. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of how contextual factors, interpersonal support networks, and institutional characteristics collectively influence the college decision-making process among high school students.

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