Conflict and Community: Outcomes of South Asian Indian American Students’ Involvement Within Christian Student Organizations

Abstract

Research concerning Indian American Christian college students’ experiences is virtually non-existent, leaving scholars and student affairs professionals lacking empirical data to support this population. This qualitative study explores how the experiences of 15 Indian American college students involved in Christian Student Organizations (CSOs) affected their cocurricular experience and identity development. Findings from the study revealed three major outcomes of CSO involvement: (a) confronting difference, (b) balancing pressures, and (c) creating community. Implications for scholarship and practice are discussed.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Costin Thampikutty

a

Costin Thampikutty ([email protected]) is a PhD student at Rutgers University and college success program manager at Let’s Get Ready. His research focuses on Christian student organizations and intersections of religious, racial, and ethnic identity development.

Justin Samuel

b

Justin T. Samuel ([email protected]) is a higher education administrator at The University of Texas at Austin, where he also serves on the faculty in the College of Education and the College of Pharmacy.