Bicultural accommodation: A critical examination of the academic and social experiences of Sikh American college students

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study contributes to the scholarship concerning the Sikh diaspora by critically examining the experiences of Punjabi Sikh American students in a Northern California community college to identify factors inhibiting or promoting their progress and success. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of Sikh college students. Findings demonstrate that microaggressions against Sikh students represent a significant negative factor inhibiting their academic progress. Sikh students routinely experience discrimination from instructors, counselors, and other students. Their parents, siblings, and Sikh friends are critical sources of academic support. A strong sense of familial and cultural belonging is an important positive factor promoting their progress and success.