Date of Award

Spring 2023

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Major

Educational Studies

First Advisor

Professor Britney Jones

Abstract

This qualitative study aims to examine the effects of Trinity College's campus culture on the social and academic experiences of queer men on campus. In order to properly uncover a possible relationship between queerness and the historic marginalization of minority identities at Trinity College, I conducted seven one-on-one interviews with queer male students to understand their first-hand experiences. Through analysis of data from these interviews, I uncovered that Trinity College’s campus culture significantly impacts the social and academic experiences of queer men. Within the context of this culture, queer men with alternate intersections are at an increased risk of social ostracization and exclusion. In order to survive in such an environment, queer male students have paved their own way, both finding and creating safe spaces. A recent uptick in student activism for a more inclusive campus resulted in a slight shift in campus culture towards inclusion. However, other facets, such as broader societal progression and the newly rebooted Queer Resource Center have also contributed to this campuswide shift. In this thesis, I delve into each of those factors and offer recommendations for maintaining momentum while attempting to untangle centuries of oppression and marginalization of minority identities on Trinity College's campus.

Comments

Senior thesis completed at Trinity College, Hartford CT for the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies.

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